Waitsburg School Board recognizes outgoing member Hamann at special meeting

WAITSBURG-The Waitsburg School Board met Thursday, December 2 for a special meeting.

Immediately after adopting the agenda, the board broke for a 15 minute recess. The board recognized long-time member and chair, Ross Hamann, who announced earlier this year that he would not be running for re-election. Hamann served on the board for nearly 20 years.

Superintendent Mark Pickel presented Hamann with a plaque that featured the Cardinal logo that Hamann drew years ago. The Cardinal has since become synonymous with the Waitsburg School District. Pickel also presented him with a lifelong athletic pass, something that any sports fan was sure to enjoy.

"It's been good, I've enjoyed it," Hamann said of his time on the board. "It's been challenging at times, but I wouldn't trade it for anything. This school is very important to this community."

Hamann shared that he originally joined the board as a way to give back to the district and the community that had such a big impact on his own life.

"I feel good about my time served," Hamann said, "I also feel good about my decision to not run again."

He said that a couple of his favorite memories on the board include being able to present both of his daughters' diplomas at graduation. He said that he had planned on retiring after his youngest daughter graduated in 2014, but was talked into serving for a little longer.

His parting words to the board: Don't serve with an agenda, but champion a cause. Don't look for problems, watch for progress. Trust your administrators, but hold them accountable.

"Always remember; we serve 270 students, 40 staff, and 1,500 community members," Hamann said.

Upon reconvening, Superintendent Pickel swore in re-elected board members Sarah Boudrieau and Lisa Morrow. He swore in newly-elected member Stephanie Cole, who assumed the seat vacated by Hamann.

A roll call vote ended with board member Christy House being selected as the new Chairman, and Lisa Morrow being selected as the Vice-Chair.

The board approved Resolution 120221 A- Enrichment Levy, as well as Resolution 120221B- Certification of Excess Property Taxes collected in 2022. These resolutions were approved by a board roll call vote.

Superintendent Pickel reported that he had received no applications for the Pro/Con committee, which would allow community members to weigh in on the proposed levy. He said that he had prepared a statement declaring that there was no interest from the community after the necessary published notice period, and that statement would be sent to the State of Washington.

The board voted to move the regularly monthly meeting to Wednesday, December 15.

Public interviews of three applicants for Board Position 5, left vacant by Pam Chapman earlier this year, were conducted.

Dr. Carol Clarke stepped up to interview first. Clarke is a lifelong educator, currently teaching classes in Panama, and a former Waitsburg School District Superintendent.

Ann Miller interviewed next. Her three children are currently enrolled in the district, and Miller shared that she was raised in an educator household, and had some teaching experience herself. She said her main focus would be serving the youth of the community.

Joseph Rhymes was the third candidate. Rhymes provided each of the board members with a document that contained his background and overview prior to his interview. He said that he wished to be part of the process of handling future issues.

The board entered a 20 minute executive session. After the session, they announced that Clarke had been selected to fill the seat. Clarke will serve for the remainder of the school year.

The meeting adjourned shortly after the selection was announced.