Batey pulls candidacy for MP School Board, Huisinga gains seat

BY BRYCE KELLY

Mt. Pleasant News

After one of the two candidates running for an open seat on the Mt. Pleasant Community School District Board of Education formally retracted his candidacy during Monday night?s board meeting, it was Melinda Huisinga who was approved as the official board representative for the District 2 seat.

?I put my name forward to fill this position because I truly thought that at this time I could make a valuable contribution (to the Mt. Pleasant Community School District). But considering all that has gone on, I believe it is in the best interest of the district to pull my name,? said candidate Todd Batey of his decision during a statement he read aloud at the meeting.

Batey, who spoke openly about his past interactions with school board strategic planning committees and his involvement with groups like SOS, said he wishes the current board well and feels it is his duty to facilitate forward-thinking within the community and the school district.

?I have learned through the last two years that democracy works if people are willing to get involved. A group of committed people can create real change...the people have spoken,? said Batey, who also praised Huisinga?s résumé and volunteerism. ?We have a new board and I wish you well.?

With Batey out of contention, Huisinga was sworn in by a unanimous vote and officially began her term during Monday night?s meeting. Huisinga brings with her a plethora of experience in the school board realm with 12 years of experience on the school board for a school district in Carlisle.

?I really want to utilize my background and experience. I also really want to focus on enhancing communication and trust in the community by working together and moving forward,? said Huisinga, who also highlighted her eagerness to be involved in board activities such as the search for the district?s next superintendent.

Within the Mt. Pleasant Community, Huisinga, who is a retired vice president of human resources for an insurance company, is an avid volunteer at Midwest Old Threshers Reunion and sits on the Iowa Wesleyan University Presidential Advisory Council, among other local volunteer positions.

With regard to her past experience as a school board member, Huisinga also spoke about being involved with superintendent searches and managing school budgets in Carlisle, saying having attainable goals and a good attitude is crucial to any school board?s overall success.

?A school board needs to have a long-term vision in mind always. As a board member, I want to advocate for students, support the community and always come to meetings with an open mind,? she stated.