Search for Elizabethton School Board seat begins

Published 9:42 am Friday, August 18, 2023

BY ROBERT SORRELL

Star Correspondent

Individuals wanting to fill a vacant Elizabethton School Board seat have one week to submit a letter of interest.

The board met Thursday to accept the resignation of Mike Wilson and to discuss the process to replace him.

Wilson, who was not present, recently submitted a letter of resignation to Board Chairman Eddie Pless. “I’ve truly valued the opportunity to work with such a strong and dedicated group that is committed to the success of students, teachers, and staff of our school system,” Wilson wrote in his letter. “I have enjoyed serving the citizens of Elizabethton and appreciate the support provided me.”

Pless thanked Wilson for his service to the community.

“He’s done a little bit of everything, and he will truly be missed,” Pless said.

Wilson previously served as a teacher in Elizabethton and “certainly loved our students,” Pless said.

The chairman added that he has heard from many people in the community who have spoken positively of Wilson.

“We wish him the best,” Pless said.

The board has 30 days to fill the vacant seat, according to the city charter. Pless noted that the person will fill the seat until the next city election in November 2024.

Elizabethton residents interested in filling the seat have until noon on August 25 to submit a letter of interest, Pless said. The letter must include their name, address and why they are interested in serving on the board. Letters should be submitted to central office.

The board will then meet on August 31 at 4 p.m. for a special-called meeting to discuss the letters and ultimately select a new board member. The selected member will then be able to participate in September’s monthly board meeting.

Pless also provided a brief update on the job of Director of Schools Richard VanHuss. An evaluation was recently completed, which Pless said revealed that VanHuss has served well as the school superintendent. He said there were no major weaknesses noted in the report.

“We are thankful for his leadership,” Pless said.

He added that the system appears to be going in the “right direction.”