CLEARFIELD – The Clearfield Area School District Board of Directors appointed Gail Ralston to fill a vacant seat on the board by a 6-1 vote at Monday night’s combined committee and board meetings.
Board member Larry Putt, who acted as president for the meeting, said the district had three individuals express interest in the seat. However, he said one had withdrawn prior to the board meeting. In addition to Ralston, Putt said Ron Lizotte wanted consideration. Lizotte wasn’t present at the meeting.
Solicitor Aimee Willett explained to the board that they could either accept nominations and then vote or they could just conduct an at-large vote. Board members agreed to conduct an at-large vote between Ralston and Lizotte.
Prior to the vote, Ralston was asked to address why she wanted to fill the vacant seat left by former board member Dave Glass, who resigned in April. Ralston said, “That’s easy. I care about our community, its schools and most importantly our children.
“I’ve demonstrated my care and my commitment by my attendance at board meetings and other public forums requested by this board. I have shown due diligence in my research on topics of issues facing this board.”
Ralston believed she’s knowledgeable of the decisions that the board will be facing in the coming months. She also believed she could contribute to that decision-making process.
“At the heart of it all, members of the district’s Board of Education must believe unequivocally in the value of public education,” said Ralston. “They must be dedicated to serving and teaching of all of our children. They must believe in the democratic process and understand their role is to act strategically in line with the interest of the entire school community.”
Ralston added, “I respectfully feel that over the last 18 months I have demonstrated those beliefs. I feel that I can be a positive addition to the Clearfield Board of Education.”
Afterward board member Dr. Michael Spencer asked Ralston what role finances would play in her decisions if appointed to the board. She explained she would ask questions and seek information and base her decisions on the answers and information provided to her.
She believed in using what the district already has but wants the district’s students to have the best educational facilities. She said if dollars must be spent to accomplish that, she would vote in favor.
No other questions were asked of Ralston.
Board members Phil Carr, Tim Morgan, Susan Mikesell, Rick Schickling, Spencer and Jennifer Wallace voted for Ralston. Putt voted for Lizotte. Board member Mary Anne Jackson was absent.
Ralston will serve the remainder of Glass’ term, which expires in November.