Tyree Elected as W.P. School Board President

West Plains School Board of Education has chosen Cindy Tyree as board president at their monthly meeting last week. Tyree replaces Jim Thompson, who served on the school board for 36 years. Thompson lost his re-election campaign in the April 2 municipal elections to sitting member Brian Mitchell and newcomer Shealia Harper. Mitchell and Harper were sworn in to serve three-year terms during the Tuesday meeting.

 

In the board reshuffling, Reid Grigsby was elected as board vice president. Erica Jones was reappointed as board secretary for one year, and Superintendent Dr. Wesley Davis was appointed as board treasurer. Brian Mitchell was chosen as the Missouri School Boards Association delegate with Christena Silvey-Coleman as alternate.

 

Thompson was recognized for his outstanding dedication and long-time service to the school with a plaque acknowledging his 36 years of service to the school board. Thompson gave a short speech during the meeting before stepping down. He noted the many changes he has seen in the school system since he joined the school board in 1987. Thompson noted the great importance of extra-curricular activities to help engage kids who are in school. “We weathered funding cuts, withholdings, floods and storm damage, vandalism, and COVID,” said Thompson on the challenges he has seen. “A Zizzer is resilient and we as a district adapted and came out stronger.” “In the end, it's not about the awards or accolades, power, status, or the time served on the board. It's about ensuring the success of the kids that pass through our doors.”

 

The next West Plains School Board of Education meeting will be held on Tuesday, May 21, 2024. The school board meetings are held monthly on the third Tuesday of each month at the West Plains High School Library unless otherwise posted.