Sameer Hakim, a former Dublin school trustee who currently sits as vice chair of the city's Parks and Community Services Commission, is seeking the Dublin Unified School District Trustee Area 5 seat in the upcoming election.

The lone challenger against incumbent Board President Dan Cherrier, Hakim announced his run for the east side's Area 5 along with several campaign priorities including contributing to the district's solutions to growth, financial sustainability and quality education.

Hakim expanded on the issue of district growth in a statement issued online via his website, citing goals including upgrading facilities, opening more schools and expanding existing teacher resources.

Using his platform, Hakim said he hopes to "engage and empower the parent community with improved communications."

Hakim was previously on the DUSD Board of Trustees in an appointed, at-large capacity from 2015 to 2016. In a statement issued shortly after entering his position in 2015, Hakim said to his supporters, "thank you for your support and the opportunity to serve. I am humbled and honored. I am ready to work for the educational excellence of all kids in Dublin."

When discussing fiscal responsibility, Hakim expressed his desire to ensure school budgets are accurate and balanced, as well as that the funding is spent strategically based on need and priorities. Hakim also served on the District Optimization Committee from 2014 to 2015.

Presently, Hakim sits as the vice chairperson of the city's Parks and Community Services Commission, with his current term set to expire in December. The commission works as an advisory entity for the Dublin City Council members on issues related to recreation and planning.

Area 5 is among three seats due up for election this fall for DUSD -- a shortened term for Area 3 and a full term for Area 2, the latter of which will not appear on the ballot as only one candidate filed for the seat.

For more information about Hakim's background and campaign, visit his website at sameerhakim.com.