Andrew Hillyer and John Seeliger have each served over a decade on the Humboldt County School District board of trustees, and they attended their final meeting last Tuesday, Dec. 9. Louis Mendiola and Nicole Bengochea will take over the seats vacated by Hillyer and Seeliger in January.
At the beginning of the meeting, Hillyer and Seeliger received plaques from the school district commemorating their service. They received certificates of recognition from the National Association of School Boards, Senators Dean Heller and Harry Reid, in addition to a celebratory piece of cake and bright orange T-shirts. The shirts read, "This is my 2nd and 4th Tuesdays are free shirt," and allude to the fact that the former board members won't have to attend the board meetings on those evenings.
City councilman Mike Owens spoke during the public comments. He said he spoke as a parent with three kids in HCSD.
"Our kids are successful because of what you guys, as part of a group, did...but it was you two who were here during the whole course of their education...Andrew, thank you. John, thank you," said Owens.
Superintendent Dr. Dave Jensen said he hoped the two outgoing members would continue to attend the meetings and take advantage of the public comment section.
Each of the board members conveyed their thanks to both Seeliger and Hillyer for their years of service, hard work and dedication to the HCSD.
Hillyer, who served 14 years, said it was time for the "old lions" to separate from the pride.
"I implore you all to continue to love, everyday, what it is you do for the children and adults of this community ... Never should the needs of adults supercede the needs of students - they are the very reason we are here," said Hillyer.
He said that asking uncomfortable questions and embracing diverse opinions are qualities of good leadership, and that the board members should continue to be individual thinkers but act as one board.
"It has been a pleasure to serve with each and everyone of you ... I truly feel we have made great improvements in our schools and we have come a long, long, long way," said Hillyer.
He added that maybe the board members might think back fondly on himself and Seeliger and say, "I'm glad those jackasses aren't here or we'd be here all night again."
Seeliger, who served 12 years, thanked the board members and he said the board has made progress during his tenure. He said said he thought he was leaving the board in good, capable hands.
[[In-content Ad]]
