Students and staff from each school prepared banners thanking the board members for their service
WOODLAND — The staff and students of Woodland Public Schools celebrated their Board of Directors during the district’s regular board meeting on Mon., Feb. 25.
Although School Appreciation Month is traditionally held in January, board director schedules caused a delay in the date of the celebration however there was no decrease in the district’s appreciation.
Students and staff from each school prepared banners thanking the board members for their service which were displayed throughout the board’s meeting room. Woodland High School’s horticulture students prepared special gift baskets featuring live plants and chocolate-covered strawberries for each board director.
Superintendent Michael Green opened the meeting by recognizing each of the board members for their dedication in helping to oversee the district’s schools. “School districts’ elected boards of directors play a crucial role for our communities and our schools,” he said. “These community leaders volunteer to take on the sometimes-daunting task of helping guide school districts with their decisions affecting student learning, professional development and a myriad of other aspects of district operations.” He then presented each board director with a special certificate recognizing their contributions.
The Directors of the Board of Woodland Public Schools are:
- Sarah Stuart, raised in Woodland and a Woodland High School graduate, earned her Bachelor’s Degree in nursing from Linfield College, and has children currently attending Woodland schools. Stuart represents District 1.
- Janice Watts, raised in Woodland and a Woodland High School graduate, owns Letter Box, a local Woodland Business, and has four children who have attended or are currently attending Woodland’s schools. Watts is the current board President, a role she has served in for several years. Watts represents District 2.
- Lesa Beuscher moved to Woodland in 1992 and has worked for the same Woodland business for 22 years. She has two daughters, both of whom attended or are currently attending Woodland High School. Beuscher represents District 3.
- Matt Donald graduated from Woodland High School in 1999 and has two children currently attending Woodland Public Schools. Donald represents District 4.
- Steve Madsen moved to Cowlitz County when he was only five years old and currently has a daughter attending Woodland schools. Madsen is the current Vice President of the board and serves as the board’s Legislative Representative to the Washington State legislature. Madsen represents District 5.
Woodland Public Schools’ Board of Directors are shown here (left to right): Sarah Stuart, Lesa Beuscher, Janice Watts, Matt Donald and Steve Madsen. Photo courtesy of Woodland School District
“Our school board members help fulfill our mission statement of ensuring all of our community’s children have full access to an excellent education,” said Superintendent Green. “While we certainly appreciate our board members throughout the year, these annual recognition meetings gives us the chance to offer them at least a small amount of the recognition they truly deserve.”
Information provided by Woodland School District.
