LAS VEGAS – Shirley Breeden, director of professional development education for the Clark County School District, will announce “in the next week or two” her candidacy for the 21st Assembly District seat currently held by Republican Assemblyman Bob Beers.

Breeden’s candidacy will add to an already crowded field in the district. Jonathan Ozark, who in 2006 lost an election in the 10th Assembly District, is challenging Beers in a Republican primary, and now there will be a Democratic primary between Breeden and Henderson Democratic Club president Ellen Spiegel.

Breeden has spent more than thirty years with the Clark County School District and plans to focus her campaign on education and public safety.

“I believe that if we can provide extra programs for the kids, that will, in turn, keep them off the street and hopefully out of prison,” said Breeden.  “We spend so much money now for those kids who have taken a left turn.”

“I’ve worked with people my entire life and with the school district,” said Breeden.  “I’m a human resources person at heart and I’ve worked both licensed and support staff.”

Breeden has also served as a court-appointed special advocate and describes that work as some of her most rewarding.

The 21st District has maintained a slight edge in voter registration for the Republicans, although Democratic registration has risen significantly.  As of the most recent statistics, the Republicans have 503 more registered voters with 3,882 voters registered as non-partisan.  Last year at this time, the Republican advantage was more than 1,600 voters.

“The last election, when [Beers] won, his opponent lost by a few hundred votes,” said Breeden.  “So, I’m going to work hard, get my name out, meet the people and convince them that I will do a very, very fine job.”

She added, “I want to help, I think I can make a difference and be a voice for my constituents.”