The Fredericksburg City School Board will appoint a replacement to serve out the remainder of Ward 3 representative Jen Boyd’s term. Boyd, who has served on the school board since 2016, resigned ahead of Monday’s school board meeting, as she’s no longer residing primarily in the city.
In a message to her fellow school members, Boyd explained that as she approaches retirement, she has been preparing to move for some time.
“It is my sincere hope that you will continue to focus on what truly matters, providing the best education for all children of the City of Fredericksburg,” she wrote.
Boyd appeared at Monday’s school board meeting, and her colleagues presented her with a plaque and flowers.
“Having served on this board for over 30 years, she ranks as one of the best school members that we’ve had,” Ward 4 rep Malvina Rollins-Kay said of Boyd.
“You gave quite a bit of balance to this board,” added Jarvis Bailey (at-large).
Superintendent Marci Catlett thanked Boyd for serving as a daily confidant during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“I couldn’t have asked for a more supportive, logical-thinking, trusting board member,” Catlett said.
School Board Chair Matt Rowe (Ward 1) outlined a timeline for appointing Boyd’s interim replacement, who will serve until the end of her term on Dec. 31.
The position will be advertised until Sept. 15, and applications — with identifying information redacted — will be posted to the school division’s website on Sept. 16.
Then, at 5 p.m. on Sept. 22, the school board will hold a special meeting during which members of the public can provide input on the applicants. The board will vote on an appointment that evening, and the appointee would be sworn in during the Oct. 6 school board meeting.
Two candidates — Sarah Stelmok and Annie Langdon — are vying for the Ward 3 seat this November. The appointment of an interim representative won’t impact the election.
“I will not choose either of the candidates who are running,” said school board member Molly McFadden (at-large). “That’s for the voters to decide.”
Her colleagues appeared to agree.
Interested applicants can submit a letter of interest (500 words or less) and a resume to School Board Clerk Brina Settles.
