Retired Army veteran announces bid for school board
Leo Castillo.
– Leo Castillo, a retired Army veteran with 22 years of service, has officially announced his candidacy for the Paso Robles school board in the upcoming election on Nov. 5. Castillo has lived in Paso Robles for over a decade and has been actively involved in the local community. His commitment to the idea that “it takes a village” is evident through his extensive community service.
Castillo has served on several non-profit boards, including the Paso Robles Youth Arts Center, where he was a member and board president for six years. He also served on the board of the Boys and Girls Club of the Central Coast for one year, was a planning commissioner for the city of Paso Robles for two years, and is currently the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post Commander at Post 10965.
After retiring from the Army, Castillo focused on working with youth and completed an internship at Almond Acres Charter Academy. He then moved on to a role at Camp Roberts as a federal technician specializing in logistics management. Castillo’s desire to positively impact others drives his candidacy.
“I am running for a seat at the table to aid a panel in an optimal way that aims to ameliorate past sufferings that were felt up until 2022,” Castillo said. He aims to bring accountability, family support, and efficiency to the school board, fostering stronger connections between the district and the community.
Castillo emphasizes community engagement as a key aspect of his campaign, aiming to build a more transparent board that supports teachers, staff, students, and families. “This IS their village,” Castillo added.
Castillo’s commitment to the “village” mentality stems from his experience as a military man, often relying on his community in the absence of nearby family. This support became especially meaningful after the passing of his ten-year-old son, Logan, from cancer three years ago. The community’s unwavering support during that time left a lasting impact on Castillo.
Castillo is eager to give back to the community that has supported him and his family. He is motivated to be a positive force for Paso Robles and hopes to gain the support of voters on election day as he pledges to do right by the town he loves and is proud to call home.
