CLAY COUNTY — After a vicious raid on his home by the Cuban government, Robert Alvero was left with no other options. He took off from a boat and fled the island. He secured political asylum, swore allegiance to the U.S. Constitution, became a citizen, moved to Florida, started his family and settled in Clay County.

Now, he is one of the four candidates running for School Board District 2, a crowded at-large election.

Alvero believes in freedom and that education should be free, too — free from indoctrination. In 1999, when he was enrolled in a military academy in Cuba, Alvero said he suffered from constant propaganda. A target was placed on his back for not conforming, which is why he had to escape.

Alvero says he wants to keep politics out of our schools because children should be focused on learning what really matters: math, reading, history and science. He also wants to emphasize personal finance.

"I envision an education free from indoctrination or where politics are on display. Children should be their critical thinkers."

Alvaro’s first language is Spanish, and his bilingualism is a unique aspect that sets him apart from other candidates. Last year, the Department of Justice reached a settlement with Clay County District Schools after investigators discovered that non-English-speaking students were unable to participate in core classes. Prior to the settlement, non-English-speaking parents were not provided with information in a language they could understand.

Alvero wants to be their voice. If elected, he said he would communicate with these families openly and honestly.  

Alvero supports replacing the Clay County District Schools Police Department with the Clay County Sheriff's Office. He believes in empowering parental choice, especially regarding how library books should be accessible to children. 

“I believe there are books that are supposed to be for different ages,” he said, asserting that the ultimate decision should fall on the parents.

"I support any decision that empowers the parent to make an informed decision. I'm all in for parent's rights. I am a parent myself," he said, referring to three of his children currently enrolled in the school system.  

While he does not have teaching experience, he said his experience as a firefighter at the Jacksonville Fire Rescue Department and as a squadron commander in the Florida State Guard demonstrates his commitment to serving others. He believes in traditional, family-focused conservative values.

"I'm all about family, God and country. I'm a conservative person. I would do anything to help our children — our treasure.”