New leadership for Washington school board

WASHINGTON — Members of the Washington School District Board of Education voted unanimously Wednesday night to appoint its officers for next year, naming Troy Suchan as the body’s president, and Mike Liska as vice president.

Board Member Mindi Rees nominated Suchan, saying he was the natural pick to replace Eric Turner, who has held the role for 15 years.

“Clearly, (Suchan) has the most experience on this board by multiple years from us new members,” she said. “He has a great meter on where we’re at as a district, he talks with a lot of families, he talks with a lot of parents, he talks with a lot of administrators.

“He just has a great gauge on what’s happening in out district, and he really wants to promote the good things that are happening in our district … and although some of his comments are unorthodox, they usually are moving us in the right direction.”

Suchan said he felt “about the same as I did before I walked in the door,” but expected a big first year in the leadership role. The school board’s president does not cast a vote on most items, but leads the group’s meetings, and serves as its point of contact for news media.

“Eric’s been doing it for a long, long time, so it’s just great to have him here, and I hope I can help lead the board through this,” he said. “It’s going to be a very exciting year.”

Former Board President Eric Turner will remain a member until his term concludes at the end of 2023, but has announced that he won’t seek re-election.

Comments: Kalen.McCain@southeastiowaunion.com