Denver school board election results roll in, with John Youngquist declaring victory in at-large race

Preliminary results in Denver's school board race show candidates backed by the teachers union have been defeated, according to unofficial figures from the Denver Elections Division.

Why it matters: The outcome of the race — one that's drawn more than $1 million in campaign spending — will set the tone for local discussions about education in Denver for years to come, from school safety to declining enrollment.

• The troubled school board is currently controlled by a majority of union-backed members.

State of play: For the open, at-large seat, former Tattered Cover CEO Kwame Spearman — who's backed by the Denver Classroom Teachers Association — stood at 27% compared to 62% for challenger John Youngquist, a former principal endorsed by Denver Families Action, an education reform organization.

• In District 1, incumbent and union-backed Scott Baldermann was down with 44% of the vote compared to Kimberlee Sia's 56%.
• In District 5, incumbent and union pick Charmaine Lindsay was losing to Marlene De La Rosa, 24% to 59%, respectively.

What they're saying: Youngquist declared victory in the at-large race Tuesday night after Spearman conceded.

• "Winning this race reaffirms my understanding that our community is determined to have a school board that will work together to ensure that every child has a safe, motivating, effective learning experience," he said in a statement.

Of note: Denver Mayor Mike Johnston has endorsed all three reform-minded challengers — Youngquist, Sia, and De La Rosa.

Between the lines: Paul Ballenger dropped out of the at-large race in October, but his name still appeared on the ballot.

Editor's note: This story has been updated to include results from the latest ballot results and a quote from John Youngquist.