Cape district union rescinds Lovenguth endorsement

The Cape Henlopen Education Association announced May 2 that it has rescinded its endorsement of school board candidate Shawn Lovenguth. 

In an email shared with the Cape Gazette sent by the Delaware State Education Association on behalf of CHEA President Lacey Brown to CHEA members, Brown stated that the CHEA representative council met May 1 to discuss concerns raised from members about comments made by Lovenguth.

“The motion was made to rescind the endorsement,” Brown’s email stated. “The representative council then approved the rescinding of the endorsement by majority vote. Therefore, CHEA will not be endorsing anyone in this election moving forward.”

Lovenguth is challenging incumbent school board member Jessica Tyndall for the four-year Area A seat. CHEA had issued a news release to media through DSEA on April 1 announcing its endorsement of Lovenguth.

Brown did not respond to multiple requests for comment seeking clarification on specific statements Lovenguth made to cause concern among members, as well as the reasons for CHEA’s initial, early endorsement. Lovenguth did not respond to a request for comment on the rescinded endorsement.

A subsequent letter shared with the Cape Gazette sent by Brown to CHEA members states that Brown has resigned as president, effective immediately. In the letter, Brown said that she feels she would be unable to repair dissension among members, which she said was evident in CHEA’s most recent meeting.

Brown’s letter goes on to say that CHEA bylaws state that the vacancy in the office of the president will be filled by Vice President Christy Wimmer. Wimmer did not respond to multiple requests for comment.

In a submitted statement, Tyndall said she was appreciative of the many community members who have supported her, including many members of the district.

“I am hopeful that I will be able to continue the work of equity, communication and academic achievement for the next four years,” Tyndall said.

The Cape Henlopen school board Area A representative must live in the greater Milton area, but all eligible voters residing in the Cape district can vote. The election is set for 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., Tuesday, May 9. 

Eligible voters must bring proof of identity and residency to polls located at Cape High, Lewes Fire Hall, Mariner Middle and Rehoboth Elementary.