Conservative Candidate Sonja Shaw Challenges Teachers Union

Sonja Shaw, a candidate for California superintendent, has stirred controversy with her stance against the United Teachers Los Angeles union (UTLA). A video allegedly captured a union leader labeling Shaw as a “real threat” and warning of potential issues if she were elected. Shaw, president of the Chino Valley Unified School District board, criticized UTLA for prioritizing educational institutions over student achievement.

Shaw pointed to dismal academic outcomes in Los Angeles, where more than half of students failed to read at grade level, and nearly two-thirds struggled with math. According to the California Department of Education’s 2025 data, 46.46% of Los Angeles Unified students met or exceeded English standards and 36.76% did the same in math, meaning significant percentages fell short.

Despite criticism, Shaw remains undeterred in her statewide campaign. She stated, “If putting children and families first is a ‘huge problem’ for their agenda, that tells you everything you need to know. I won’t back down.” Shaw emphasized prioritizing parents over politics and criticized the union’s approach to handling sports and locker rooms.

Corey DeAngelis, research fellow at The Heritage Foundation, shared the video, which he believes shows organized labor’s opposition to Shaw. The speaker, identified by the California Post as Julie Van Winkle, UTLA AFT vice president, warned of the implications Shaw might have if elected.

The union has publicly backed Shaw’s opponent, Richard Barrera, president of the San Diego Unified School District board. The California Teachers Association Independent Expenditure Committee showed a significant monetary bias in Barrera’s favor, supporting him with over $5 million compared to $10,000 for Shaw.

Roxanne Hoge, chair of the Los Angeles County Republican Party, commented on Gov. Gavin Newsom’s reduction of the superintendent’s authority, linking it to the ongoing controversy.

Fox News Digital sought comments from UTLA and Newsom’s office. CJ Womack, a Fox News associate editor, has covered the story. He joined Fox News Digital in 2026 and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Political Science and Journalism from Long Beach State University.