Camara Banfield has been appointed to fill the vacant position on the Vancouver Public Schools Board of Directors. The board interviewed 13 candidates and voted unanimously for Banfield to fill the vacant seat left by board director Mark Stoker, who resigned June 1.

“I am honored to be chosen to serve our school district and I look forward to adding yet another new perspective,” said Banfield. “I am passionate about making a positive impact for our students with the assistance of our ever-growing diverse community and the other directors of the board.” 

Banfield has practiced law in Clark County for nearly 20 years. She has served the community as a deputy prosecutor and has worked as a supervisor for the past 12 years. She currently serves as the chief criminal deputy prosecuting attorney. Banfield grew up in Vancouver and attended public schools in this community. She has three children who have attended, or currently attend, schools in the district.

“Camara is an outstanding applicant, and we are excited to work with her,” said Board President Wendy Smith. “She will bring a wealth of knowledge and expertise to the board. I also want to thank all of the other applicants. This was a difficult decision as we had many exceptional candidates. We look forward to finding opportunities to work with them and include their voices in the future.”

Banfield will be sworn in at the July 14 board meeting. The appointment will be temporary until the November 2021 general election, when a permanent board member will be elected to the position.