For the first time ever, two women lead the Sioux City School Board

Sioux City Schools are honoring a pair of female trailblazers in the district during "Women's History Month" this year, with something that has never happened in the history of the Sioux City School Board.

"It has been more than 15 years since a woman has been part of the board."

​Not only are there women on the school board, but they are also leading it.

"We are extremely grateful for those women who paved the way and that were examples to us," said Perla Alarcon-Flory, "And now to be able to serve in this capacity, we have the hopes that we can encourage younger generations to continue bringing their voices and sharing what they need to share."

Perla Alarcon-Flory is serving as the board's first female president. Alongside her is Vice President Monique Scarlett.

"As an African American woman, I want to thank all of the women that paved the way. Past presidents and women that have served on the board. Without them, I would not be here. It would be impossible," said Scarlett.

These trailblazing women are bringing a unique perspective to the district and the community they serve.

"I believe that the greatest thing that we have brought to this board is an attitude of humility," said Alarcon-FLory. "We are here willing to learn and to hear and listen and to be able to put together all of the different pieces of that puzzle in order to put together a better learning environment for all of the kids in the district."

Both say they hope to serve as role models for young girls and women in Siouxland.

"How could you understand the needs of the population and the school that you are serving if they don't see themselves reflected in you and you don't see yourself reflected in them," said Alarcon-Flory.

"Those that see the need and those that will come after me, I hope that the vision and focus stay the same," said Scarlett. "To make our district the best district in Iowa and nationwide."

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