School board elections in Oakland, California, are usually low-budget races, as they are in most places.

But this year, a PAC has amassed $185,000 to elect its slate of candidates. The California Charter School Association put up $49,995 and two wealthy individuals added nearly $100,000 more for the slate.

Also on the ballot is a $475 million bond issue. If it passes, the board will determine how it is spent.

Critics worry that the slate will favor charters and a privatization agenda. The head of the PAC says the thought never crossed her mind.