To thank and honor the approximately 2,700 individuals who currently serve as board of education members throughout Oklahoma, January has been designated as School Board Recognition Month.
The goal of School Board Recognition Month is to help build community awareness about the important role of a board member. Their commitment to public service influences the lives of students, both present and future, the working environment of educators, and the quality of services provided by local schools.
Serving as a member of a local school board can be difficult, as board members are required to make tough, sometimes unpopular decisions. It is often a thankless task, yet members voluntarily tackle the enormous job of governing school districts.
While some school board members have served only months, many have dedicated years of their lives. The observance of School Board Recognition Month offers the public the opportunity to acknowledge and encourage school board members for their work on behalf of Marietta’s schools, students, and teachers.
Serving as members of Marietta’s school board are Frank Lornes with 34 years of service, Allen Woody with 10 years, Judy Sanchez-Fernandez with 4 years, Jon Willis with 2 years, and Denice Halstied in her first year of service.
“We have a great board!” said Superintendent Brandi Naylor. “Our community is fortunate to have a school board with experience and community involvement. Our board is made up of Marietta graduates and parents of current and former students, and they represent a diversity of community leaders and property owners.
“With a combined 51 years of board experience and knowledge of local people, they selflessly take on a difficult job to make sure our students have the best chance for success.”