Frances Wittenberg has officially announced her candidacy for the ISD 709 Duluth School Board, representing District 1, which includes Duluth City Precincts 1–5 and 7, the City of Rice Lake, and the Townships of Gnesen, Lakewood, Normanna, and North Star.
After launching a write-in campaign in 2023, Wittenberg is now running as a non-partisan candidate, dedicated to serving students, families, educators, and the broader Duluth community.
A first-generation American whose parents immigrated from the Philippines, Wittenberg was raised with a deep respect for education as a pathway to opportunity. Her service in the U.S. Air Force, where she lived and worked across the South, gave her firsthand experience in leadership, teamwork, and navigating diverse communities with empathy and resilience.
As a proud mother of three – one a former ISD 709 student and two currently enrolled – Wittenberg brings a personal, lived perspective on the challenges facing public education in Duluth, including budget cuts, declining academic performance in reading and math, and the increasing pressures on students and teachers.
“My mission is to serve our school community and bring positive change for our students and their families,” said Wittenberg. “I believe the core values I was raised with – combined with my military experience – have prepared me to lead with care, responsibility, and results. I’m committed to advocating for safe, supportive, and well-resourced schools across our district.”
Since 2023, Wittenberg has been actively engaged in the local education landscape — regularly attending school board listening sessions, testifying at the state Capitol, and collaborating with families, educators, and local representatives to push for real solutions that benefit all students.
With a strong background in problem-solving, change management, and critical thinking — all vital skills for addressing today’s educational challenges. Frances Wittenberg is prepared to represent District 1 with integrity, transparency, and a deep commitment to the people of Duluth, Rice Lake, and the surrounding townships.
Wittenberg will host a campaign kickoff event on Thursday, June 5, 5:30 p.m. at BoomTown Brewery & Woodfire Grill Restaurant. RSVP here.
To learn more about upcoming events or ways to get involved, contact Frances Wittenberg at wittenbergfrances1@gmail.com.
