Two candidates announce for PSUSD Trustee Area 4 seat in November election
Incumbent Charlie Ervin seeks a second term while retired superintendent Tony Signoret enters the race, setting up a contested election for the Palm Springs Unified School District board seat.
Incumbent Charlie Ervin announced his bid for re-election to the Palm Springs Unified School District Board of Education representing Trustee Area 4 Thursday, as retired PSUSD Superintendent Tonatiuh “Tony” Signoret simultaneously entered the race, setting up a contested November contest for the seat.
Ervin, who has served on the PSUSD board since 2022, said he is running again after receiving encouragement from families, community members, and supporters throughout the Trustee Area that includes Palm Springs. There are five areas in the school district.
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“Serving on the PSUSD Board since 2022 has been a tremendous honor,” Ervin said. “I remain committed to putting students first, supporting our educators, listening to families, and creating opportunities for every child to succeed.”
Ervin described himself as an entrepreneur and father who has focused during his first term on equity, student achievement, literacy, community engagement, and safe learning environments. He said more work remains ahead.
“While I am proud of the progress we have made together, there is still important work ahead,” Ervin said. “I will continue serving as a passionate, authentic, and student-centered advocate for our schools and families.”
Signoret, who retired in June 2025 after more than 35 years in public education, announced his candidacy May 20. He served as PSUSD’s first Latino superintendent and previously worked as a teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent within the district.
A Palm Springs resident since 1993, Signoret said his motivation for running is rooted in his personal connection to the community and its schools. He and his wife have fostered more than 30 children, adopted eight, and raised a family of 10, all of whom attended or graduated from PSUSD schools.
“This campaign isn’t about politics — it’s about protecting our schools from politics — and keeping the focus where it belongs: on our kids,” Signoret said.
Signoret has received endorsements from former U.S. Sen. Barbara Boxer and former Palm Springs Mayor Geoff Kors, as well as the Palm Springs Teachers Association, Teamsters Local 986, the Palm Springs Police Management Association, and the Palm Springs Firefighters Association Local 3601.
His campaign platform includes strengthening student achievement, maintaining safe and supportive schools, ensuring transparent governance, and building stronger community connections.
Both candidates will be on the Nov. 3 general election ballot.
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