COMPTON — As students return to schools in the Compton Unified School District, the school board has elected new officers for the 2025-26 academic school year.
Each year the seven-member body elects new officers. Micah Ali will return as board president.
“I am deeply humbled by the continued trust and confidence placed in me by my fellow trustees and the community we serve,” Ali said. “To be reelected as president of the board is not just an honor — it is a profound responsibility.
“Compton Unified has become a living testament to what is possible when vision is met with courage, and when systems are moved by the brilliance of our children,” he added. “With unyielding hope and steady determination, I remain committed to helping lead our district into a future that not only meets its tremendous potential, but fully actualizes it — for every student, every family, and every generation to come.”
Ali has been a member of the board for 18 years and holds the distinction as the longest-serving president in the district’s history.
He is the founder and chairman of the California Association of Black School Educators, a non-partisan organization consisting of elected and appointed school officials, administrators and instructors from across California who are committed to advancing equity for Black students.
The newest member of the school board, Michael Hooper, was elected to serve as vice president.
“It’s an exciting time to serve as vice president,” Hooper said. “I’m proud of our incredible progress and eager to keep supporting student success across the entire school district.”
Hooper currently works as a social worker for Los Angeles Compton and assumed the role of vice president from Satra Zurita.
Zurita is the longest serving board member for the district with nearly two decades of service. She was elected to serve as board clerk.
“Our students deserve the best, and we’re making sure they get it — from new facilities like the new Compton High School to expanded academic opportunities, Zurita said.”
Zurita is credited with bringing the Compton Early College to the district and pushed for the new aquatics center at the rebuilt Compton High School.
Ayanna E. Davis was elected the board’s legislative representative.
“As legislative representative, I remain focused on advocating for the policies and resources our scholars and educators need to thrive,” Davis said. Her role is to advocate for the interests of the school districts before the state Legislature, working on legislation related to education policy, funding, and other relevant issues.
Davis is currently running for state Assembly to succeed Assemblyman Mike Gipson.
Emilie St. John is a freelance journalist covering the areas of Carson, Compton, Inglewood and Willowbrook. Send tips to her at emiliesaintjohn@gmail.com.
