Miami-Dade School Board Member Dr. Steve Gallon III officially filed last Friday to run for the District 1 county commission seat. He didn’t release a statement or video then, but a single photo was posted with him pictured in front of the Miami-Dade County Supervisor of Elections office. The social media post simply said, “Let’s Go.” Yesterday he released his first campaign graphics on social media with no caption. Now he’s finally speaking on why he’ll be leaving the school board to run for District 1 County Commission seat.

Gallon, who currently represents District 1 on the Miami-Dade County School Board, is one of the most recognizable elected officials in Northwest Miami-Dade and enters the contest with nearly four decades of experience in education, government and public service.

His announcement comes as political attention continues to intensify around the open District 1 seat, which has already attracted interest from several high-profile candidates.

“Public service has been the focus of my life’s work,” Gallon said in a statement announcing his candidacy. “I am running for County Commission because District 1 deserves experienced leadership that understands how to bring people together, manage resources responsibly, and improve the quality of life for the residents we serve.”

Throughout his career, Gallon has served as a teacher, principal, superintendent and elected official. He currently helps oversee one of the nation’s largest public school systems as a member of the Miami-Dade County School Board, which manages an annual budget approaching $8 billion and employs nearly 40,000 people.

Supporters point to Gallon’s long track record in public education, community advocacy and government leadership as strengths he could bring to county government.

Sources close to Dr. Gallon shared with Hy-Lo News that Gallon had been eyeing the seat in anticipation of Commissioner Gilbert facing his term coming to an end due to term limits in 2028.

Dr. Gallon confirmed exclusively to Hy-Lo News that he had discussed this intent with a select few more than a year ago which he expressed to others in recent months.

“Man plans, God laughs,” Dr. Gallon said to Hy-Lo News. “So, yes. That was the plan. But with the actions that occurred Friday, I realized the time was now. I wasn’t going to wait. Our community couldn’t afford to wait for experienced, proven leadership in that seat that it has had under the leadership of Commissioner Gilbert.”

In his announcement, Gallon outlined what he is calling a “Quality of Life Agenda,” focused on five key priorities: affordable housing and neighborhood stability; safe communities and strong infrastructure; children, youth and family success; economic opportunity and financial security; and health, wellness and community well-being.

“The challenges facing our communities are interconnected,” Gallon said. “Whether it is housing affordability, public safety, economic opportunity, youth development, or neighborhood revitalization, we must work together to create stronger communities and greater opportunities for every resident.”

District 1 includes communities throughout Northwest Miami-Dade County, including Miami Gardens, Opa-locka, portions of North Miami-Dade and surrounding neighborhoods. The seat is expected to be one of the most closely watched races in South Florida this election cycle.

Gallon’s educational background includes graduating magna cum laude from Florida A&M University before earning both master’s and doctoral degrees from Florida International University. He also completed postdoctoral leadership studies at Harvard University and Stanford University.

As the campaign begins to take shape, Gallon says his focus will remain on improving outcomes for residents and bringing his experience in public service to county government.

“District 1 is filled with hardworking families, seniors, business owners, and young people who deserve a strong advocate and proven leadership,” Gallon said. “I am ready to bring my experience, energy, and commitment to service to the County Commission and continue working to improve the quality of life for every child, every family, and every neighborhood.”

Hy-Lo News will continue following the District 1 race as additional candidates enter the contest and campaign season begins to heat up.