Kelso School District School Board President Bob Lucas submitted his letter of resignation, effective September 30, 2018. For the last seven years, he’s helped inform and guide the direction of the district as Vice President and President of the Board.
Lucas originally became a Kelso School District Board Member in the 1980’s when Carrolls School District consolidated with the Kelso. His time on the Carrolls Board and the Kelso Board is what inspired him to become a teacher. After going back to school for his MIT, he taught in La Center for 3 years before returning to Kelso to teach 5th grade at Butler Acres. He finished his 17-year teaching career out at Coweeman before rejoining the Board of Directors in 2011.
In addition to his work, Lucas showed his commitment to service by volunteering for many years as an Outdoor School instructor, CASA advocate, and volunteer Coweeman basketball coach.
“Bob Lucas exemplifies servant leadership. He is deeply committed to our team, our students, and our community,” said Superintendent Mary Beth Tack. “Kelso School District is a better organization because of his passion for kids and staff. He has been a role model and mentor to so many within our district, including me.”
When asked why he’s stepping down from the Board, Lucas said, “Our kids and their families are pretty special in our lives, and I have four young grandsons who still think I’m kind of cool. I’d like to spend a lot of time with them before they realize the truth.” He and his wife, Marsha, also have plans to travel more.
Kelso Education Association (KEA) President Bob Gustin shared that “We are really going to miss Bob Lucas. We will miss his leadership. How can you put a price on someone who spent years in the classroom, who understands the day to day challenges that staff face and has a heart for kids?”
Board Vice President Roy Parsons will serve as Interim President until the annual election of officers in December. Applications for the vacant board position may be picked up in the Superintendent’s Office at 601 Crawford Street in Kelso. Completed applications must be received by 5 p.m. on September 28 at the same location. The duties of a Kelso School District Board Member are stated in Policy 1220 and the key functions of the Board are stated in Policy 1005.