AO
Candidate

Araueni Olivares

School BoardDemocrat

UT-State School Board District 8 School Board

Hispanic

Why This Race Matters

Araueni Olivares is running against Nicole McDermott (R).

District 8 represents one of the most diverse areas in Utah, covering Taylorsville (26% Hispanic), Kearns, and West Jordan in southern Salt Lake County. This is an open seat after incumbent Christina Boggess announced she would not seek re-election, citing frustration with the system. Latino children are the second-largest demographic group in Utah public schools after white students.

Olivares faces Nicole McDermott (R), a 25-year educator and current Granite School District board member who holds degrees from University of Utah and Columbia University. Republican primary also includes Trina Christensen (R). Utah Democratic Party celebrated historic candidate recruitment with 100% coverage in State Board of Education races. In 2022, candidates discussed how to help Latino students through Spanish interpreters, flexible meeting times, and programs like Latinos in Action. Democratic convention April 11, 2026; primary June 23, 2026.

Key dates to watch: Primary on June 23, 2026 and General Election on November 3, 2026.

About

Araueni Olivares is a Democratic candidate for Utah State Board of Education District 8, which covers Taylorsville, Kearns, and West Jordan in southern Salt Lake County. Running in the 2026 election cycle, she emphasizes responsive leadership and constituent-driven policy-making. She aims to bring a different perspective to education governance and ensure every student has access to quality public education regardless of their background or ZIP code.

Family & Heritage

Details about family and immigration story not publicly available. The surname Olivares is of Spanish origin (most common in Mexico, Chile, and Venezuela per Forebears.io), and the first name Araueni appears to be of Latin American origin. She is part of the Utah Democratic Party's [historic 2026 candidate slate](https://utahpolicy.com/news-release/76355-utah-democrats-celebrate-historic-candidate-recruitment-for-2026-elections) that achieved 100% coverage of State Board of Education races.

Key Issues & Priorities

*Public education equity and access
*Ensuring quality education regardless of background or ZIP code
*Constituent-driven policy-making
*Responsive educational leadership

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