School board member resigns

The board is working on
a plan to update school facilities.

HOWLAND — Andy Bednar has resigned as a member of the Howland Board of Education.

He resigned Tuesday to allow his architectural firm, Baker, Bednar & Associates, the opportunity to be considered to provide professional design services for the school district.

“Without a doubt, the decision to resign from the school board has been one of the toughest in my life,” Bednar said. “My time on the Howland board has been much more significant and meaningful than I ever imagined. I have been truly humbled to serve alongside such a distinguished and strong board.

“Each difficult decision made by the board was just a bit easier because of our unified focus on the students of Howland Local Schools,” he said.

Board President Scott Lehman said Bednar’s contributions to the board have been appreciated.

“Along with the other members of the Howland School Board, I sincerely thank Andy for his outstanding service. He has always put the education of Howland’s children first,” Lehman said. “We understand his desire to have his firm considered as part of our potential future building project. We hope he will keep serving the community and helping to move Howland forward.”

During his 31⁄2 years on the board, Bednar was involved in several school and community initiatives.

In 2006-2007, he and a group of 12 community members created the Howland Community Scholarships Foundation, which awards scholarships annually to Howland’s graduating seniors. Last year, the group raised more than $115,000 and awarded 21 scholarships.

Before becoming a board member, Bednar was also a part of a school levy committee.

The board is working on a comprehensive plan to update district facilities. On Nov. 26, the board approved a motion to publicly advertise for professional design services tied to the development of a comprehensive plan for updating its facilities.

The board will accept applications for the vacant position from district residents at least 18 until Jan. 4. For additional information and materials, contact Tom Krispinsky, district treasurer, at (330) 856-8207.