It can be a thankless job at times.
To make the decision to run for and serve on a local school board requires commitment and passion to make a difference in your school system and in the community. Board members are not paid for their service, and on their shoulders, they bear the responsibility of the operation of the district and the safety and welfare of their students and employees. Along with the superintendent of schools, they are the leadership in any school district, and it is a tough job. Face it; a lot of times, board members and district administration only hear from us when we are mad about something. So, the job of school board member requires a special commitment and a comfort of knowing that the work and service is for the benefit of the students, staff, and community.
Arkansas School Boards Appreciation Month is observed in January each year. Along with the board members’ professional organization, the Arkansas School Boards Association, districts across the state take time to recognize the work and service of local school boards across the state. And last week, the Paris school district honored its board of five committed members who serve the district.
Mr. Jim Loyd, Superintendent of Schools for the Paris School District, presented each board member with a certificate of appreciation for their service. With each presentation, Mr. Loyd gave a short anecdote about each board member.
After thanking the principals and staff of the district who provided items of appreciation that adorned the board room saying thanks to the board, Loyd began with the presentations of certificates to each board member.
Starting with board president Cory Wells, Loyd commented, “Cory has served for approximately eight years. Tracy (board member Tracy Richey) is the smartest person I know; she has hired me twice (referring to two different terms as superintendent that Loyd has served the district). Dustin Schluterman, graduated the year before I first came to Paris!”
Continuing with the presentations, Loyd, speaking of board member Beth Ulrich, Loyd said, “Beth is…(interrupted by Ulrich when she thought he was going to refer to age or time in district)…she was an elementary secretary when I was in the district last, and we have had many adventures over the years dealing with issues within the school.”
Finally, in recognizing board member June Gilbreath, Loyd commented, “June has been in the school district longer than anyone I can remember!”
Everyone had a big laugh, and it was obvious to everyone in the room that the Paris superintendent, along with others in the room, truly appreciated the work and service by each board member.
So, to each member of the Paris school board, as well as to school board members across the state, thank you for all that you do. Your work is both important and appreciated, even if we do not tell you often as we should. You make a difference every day for our students, and for that, we are grateful.
