Poinsettias decorated the room to mark the holidays as three
Hollister School District Board members were sworn in at the
board’s monthly meeting Tuesday night.
Poinsettias decorated the room to mark the holidays as three Hollister School District Board members were sworn in at the board’s monthly meeting Tuesday night.
Newcomer Eugenia Sanchez and returning members Dee Brown and Alice Flores joined Carol Cochran and Margie Barrios in starting four-year terms amid statewide budget cuts that may severely affect the district.
One of the first things the new board members did was celebrate outgoing board member Harry Samuelson’s service to the district.
“We thank you for your 12 years of sincere, unselfish service,” Flores said, presenting Samuelson with a plaque. A standing ovation from the board and spectators followed.
Samuelson wished the board members luck, saying half-jokingly that they would need it. He also congratulated Sanchez – his former student – on her November win.
Sanchez said she was nervous only during the closed session because she didn’t know what to expect. She said she has been attending the open sessions for three years.
“I felt comfortable up there,” Sanchez said. “This is something I’ve wanted to do for a long time.”
The chairs were packed with Sanchez’s family, friends and campaign supporters who wanted to mark her first meeting.
Cochran was then nominated and unanimously voted board president by the five-member board and
Brown was elected clerk by a 4-1 vote. Former president Flores passed the gavel to Cochran, who conducted the meeting from then on.
“I wish times were better, but I’m excited (to serve as board president),” Cochran said.
Also, Barrios was elected the board’s representative to the County Committee on School District Organization.
Gabilan Hills School Principal Diane Campbell gave a presentation on the school’s academic program. Currently, Gabilan Hills’ focus is on its curriculum, especially reading and fluency. The school now has two computer labs and 52 students participating in the Gifted and Talented Education program, Campbell said.
“Where we see needs, we try to fulfill them,” she said. “It’s wherever all our students are.”
