By ZEINAB NAJM
Times-Herald Newspapers
DEARBORN – The Dearborn Public Schools Board of Education is searching for a new member with the resignation of Board President Aimee Schoelles.
Schoelles resigned her position effective on June 30 and will be leaving the district after 15 years for a new job opportunity with Dana Holding Corp. in Ohio.
“The company first contacted me in February about a position with their treasury department,” she said. “It was a tough decision but it is a good opportunity for me and my family.”
Board members are required to live in the district in order to serve on the board.
“I was hesitant about applying (for the new job) because my heart’s in Dearborn, but it’s a great opportunity for me and my family,” she said. “I thought that I could drive it, but it’s a 75-mile drive one way.”
During her time as a board member Schoelles worked with four different superintendents, three college presidents and 14 different board members.
“Her leadership on the board, her leadership in the community is going to be sorely, sorely missed,” Dearborn Supt. Brian Whiston said last week.
Early in her career, Schoelles helped make decisions on district boundaries and state budget cuts.
She played a part in the passing of the 2003 bond proposal that brought four new schools, building additions and technology upgrades to the district. Schoelles also helped with the passage of the 2013 SMART bond.
“I know the district is in good shape and in good hands,” Schoelles said. “I am going to miss the students and helping making a difference in their lives.”
School officials and community members will honor Schoelles with a reception prior to the July 13 board meeting.
“I am so incredibly grateful that the citizens of Dearborn put their trust in me, especially when it comes to their kids,” Schoelles said.
The board has have 30 days from Schoelles’ resignation date to appoint a new board member.
Anyone living in the district can apply for the open seat. Applications will be accepted from through July 9.
Those interested should hand deliver or send a letter of interest, resume and three references to the Dearborn Public Schools Administration Building, 18700 Audette, Room 6, Dearborn, MI 48124 by 4 p.m. July 9.
The board will review all submitted applications and select finalists to interview during the July 13 board meeting.
Final interviews will occur at the July 20 Henry Ford College board meeting followed by a selection of a new board member to fill the open seat.
The applicant selected will serve until the next general election in November 2016.
“The board members will select a new president,” DPS Communications Director David Mustonen said. “Traditionally that has been the person that is currently the vice president which is currently Roxanne McDonald.”
(Zeinab Najm can be reached at [email protected].)