The races for Pinellas County School Board are officially non-partisan. But at its next monthly meeting on Aug. 6, the St. Petersburg Democratic Club is hosting all candidates who are registered Democrats. Here's why:

"We have found that in recent years the party opposite (G.O.P.) have invested a great deal of time and money in getting their candidates elected in an attempt to inject their right-wing values into the school system," club president Jim Donelon said in a press release. "For too long we Democrats have allowed our candidates to play second fiddle to other races on the ballot, but the time has come to place greater emphasis on these very important positions. Every child, regardless of race, gender or economic status deserves the best quality education we can deliver and the candidates who are Democrats are committed to doing so."

The meeting is scheduled for 6:30 p.m. at Piccadilly Cafeteria, 1900 34th St. Club membership is not required to attend.