PORT TOWNSEND — The Port Townsend School District is calling for applicants to fill the board seat vacated by the June resignation of Holley Carlson, who was serving as chairwoman.
No applications have been received so far.
“I’m not that worried about this,” said Superintendent David Engle.
“The timing is bad because people vacate in the summer, but I’m pretty sure we can find someone.”
2018 expiration
The term for Carlson’s seat expires in January 2018.
Prior to an appointment, the board is operating as a four-member panel with Pam Daly, who did not seek re-election this year, acting as chairwoman.
Engle said serving on the School Board is a good way for people to get involved.
“It’s a great opportunity to serve the community, and it’s creative work where you are supporting a great initiative,” he said.
“It’s action-packed, but it is a time commitment. We meet twice a month, and the meetings can go on for a while.”
Engle said School Board members can become “a lightning rod” when there are controversial issues, such as the change of the Port Townsend High School mascot from Redskins to Redhawks, a decision the board finalized in 2014, “but we don’t have anything like that right now.”
Since the position was advertised, one person demonstrated interest but then withdrew because of time commitments, while another has visited the district several times but has not submitted an application, Engle said.
Applicants will be interviewed by the board, which will make the appointment.
The School Board next meets Sept. 14.
Each member represents a specific geographical district.
Applicants for Carlson’s seat must reside in that district, which is centrally located and bordered by McPherson Street, Discovery Road, 19th Street, Blaine Street and the city limits.
For the specific boundaries, go to http://tinyurl.com/PDN-Boundary.
For information and applications, call 360-379-4501.
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Jefferson County Editor Charlie Bermant can be reached at 360-385-2335 or cbermant@peninsuladailynews.com.
