“I’m excited to help continue the long tradition of excellence in Benicia schools.” Press Release, August 5, 2026Former Benicia Councilman and schoolteacher Dan Smith is vowing to put students first as he launches his candidacy for Benicia Unified School District board of trustees. “I’m excited to help continue the long tradition of excellence in Benicia schools,” said Smith, who would represent the city’s Eastside (Zone 1) on the board. Dan and his wife of 38 years, Diana, led Operation Playground to build the Playground of Dreams in City Park. Smith is chairman and vice-chairman, respectively of the Citizen Advisory Committees for the Solano Open Space agency and Soltrans, the Benicia bus system.