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For Immediate Release
Contact: Katherine Goff, Public Relations and Communications Officer
kgoff@ycsd.york.va.us
(757) 898-0391 During a special meeting on Tuesday, May 28, the York County School Board voted 3-2 to remove Lynda Fairman (District 5) as chair. "Over the last few months, I have had to sit and watch as the community is at odds with one another, watched as board members have been at odds with one another," said Kim Goodwin (District 3) as the board began discussion on the agenda topic of board leadership. “I think at this time, a leadership change is needed in order to move us forward." Mark Shafer (District 1) then nominated Goodwin to serve as chair. The motion, seconded by Zoran Pajevic (District 2), passed by a vote of 4-1. Mrs. Goodwin then nominated Jimmy Richardson (District 4) to serve as vice chair, receiving a second from Mr. Shafer. The vote on the motion was 3-2. Following the meeting, Mrs. Goodwin, Mr. Richardson and Dr. Shandor shared written statements. Mrs. Goodwin: I am committed to moving our school board and the school division forward with a renewed focus on the needs of our schools, students, families, and teachers. I want to thank Mr. Richardson, Mr. Shafer and Mr. Pajevic for their support in naming me chair. My goal is to restore trust and strengthen relationships within our community by listening to and addressing your concerns. Ultimately, we all share the same goal: to inspire and support student success and if we can look forward, rather than backwards, we can do just that.
Mr. Richardson: I look forward to working closely with our new chair and to helping her grow and succeed in this role as we move forward. She has shown resilience and a willingness to address the issues and criticism facing both our board, and herself, head-on. Over the last few months, she has visited our schools, met with families and community members to listen to their concerns and learn more about their expectations for her in this role. I am committed to fostering a cooperative spirit among all board members. We will not always agree on every topic – and that’s okay – but together, we can and will work collaboratively with families and staff to prioritize the success and well-being of our students.
Dr. Shandor: I believe Mrs. Goodwin and Mr. Richardson have the best interests of our students, staff, families and community in mind. I look forward to supporting them in their roles, reestablishing positive relationships between the board and staff, and focusing on what’s best for students.
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