South Range board appointment questioned

NORTH LIMA — South Range Board of Education officials are checking with their lawyer today to see if an appointment to a board vacancy will stand.

At its meeting tonight, the board unanimously appointed Amy White to fill the vacancy left by the resignation of Bruce Zinz for personal reasons. White will serve for the rest of this calendar year. The position will be on the November ballot for a two-year term.

Resident Richard Ferenchak asked the board why they violated its policy and did not interview every candidate who expressed interest.

Board President Ralph Wince said they received five applications — a sixth one was received late — and of those five applicants, two were interviewed.

South Range schools’ bylaws, however, available through the school’s website, state, “The board shall interview all interested candidates to ascertain their qualifications.” Earlier in the bylaws, shall is defined as “when an action by the board or its designee is required.”

Wince said late tonight he took responsibility for the situation, and that the school district would consult its lawyer on the next step.

For the complete story, read Tuesday's Vindicator and Vindy.com