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TYRONE -- A longtime Tyrone Area School Board member has resigned.
On Tuesday, Brian Bressler, school board member for 26 years, submitted his resignation effective Jan. 14, citing personal reasons.
The board must fill the position with an interim member within 30 days of the official resignation date, conducting any interviews in an open forum for the public.
John Clark, business manager, explained that aside from these stipulations, no formal hiring process is in the school code for filling a vacant board position.
"Typically we would advertise," he said, "then there would be an interview at a committee meeting, then we would take nominations at the regular meeting and vote."
Historically, interviews have been held one-by-one, with all candidates interviewing in the same evening at a regular session.
Clark said that although this was precedent, the board could change the process.
Board member Randy Miles said he felt that the previous process was difficult and unfair for those participating and would like to see a different format but "getting the person seated as soon as we can."
Fellow member James Raabe suggested the board do a "panel interview" where each candidate would be asked different questions to avoid what Miles and other board members felt was "uncomfortable" for the interviewees.
The board will formally decide on the process next Tuesday at its regular meeting.
Bressler was a liaison between the board and the Pennsylvania School Boards Association, the Greater Altoona Career and Technology Center representative for Tyrone Area School District and vice president of the Appalachia Intermediate Unit 8 Board where he represented both Tyrone Area and Bellwood-Antis school districts.
The PSBA liaison serves as a link to the state organization, which aims to have "informed, engaged, and passionate school directors leading and advocating effectively for quality public education across Pennsylvania."
The AIU8 is an organization that partners with local schools, providing education and support services with the goal of "fostering innovation in learning."
Board Vice President William Lash will replace Bressler as PSBA liaison. Board member Jeff Long will take over duties as the GACTC representative. The decision on a replacement to represent the AIU8 will come later.
Leslie Estep, acting superintendent, said it has been very good having Bressler on the board and that "his presence will definitely be missed."
Rose Black, board president, echoed these sentiments, praising Bressler for his strong support of all types of educational programs.