Is District Fast Tracking Board Appointment to Circumvent Election Results?
In a move that has caused controversy, the Tahoma School District is seemingly fast-tracking the appointment of a new board director to fill the void left by Haley Pendergraft's resignation (position 1). Both Pendergraft and Malia Hollowell resigned in response to mounting community pressure stemming from allegations of a lack of accountability within the district, particularly concerning cases of sexual abuse involving elementary-aged students.
During the recent Tahoma School District board retreat, the timeline for Director Carreon's appointment in 2022 was referenced as a model for how quickly the remaining school board could fill Pendergraft’s vacancy. The district followed with a proposed timeline that many noted was remarkably expedited. The previous timeline allowed for a 12-week period for the appointment process, whereas the new timeline allows only 5 1/2 weeks. Furthermore, the new timing aims to have the vacancy filled just before voters receive their ballots.
Timeline to appoint Director Carreon
Timeline to appoint Director Pendergraft’s vacancy
This has sparked speculation that the district is attempting to expedite the appointment process to pre-empt the results of the upcoming elections and appoint a director who aligns with the interests of the 'Good Old Boys Club.' Currently, three contested elections are underway, offering the potential to replace a majority of the board with members more willing to hold the district accountable for its actions. Notably, Malia Hollowell, one of the resigning directors, is running in one of these contested races. Consequently, she could theoretically win her election, step down again, and be replaced by an appointed director chosen without voter input. If she loses her election, then no appointment process can take place for her seat.
For many, the maneuver to fast track an appointment to position 1 is perceived as underhanded and lacking transparency. At a time when the community is demanding both accountability and transparency, a more ethical approach suggested would be to hold applicant interviews after the new board has been determined through the electoral process. This would allow the community to have a say in who fills this vital vacancy.
However, some argue that the district's swift response to filling the position 1 vacancy actually benefits the community. According to the regulations outlined in RCW 28A.343.370, the school board must promptly fill any vacant director position within a 90-day timeframe after a director steps down. If the current school board accepts resignations in the coming days, the 90-day countdown begins. This leaves limited time for a newly elected school board, who will take office in late November, to carefully consider potential candidates. If neither the existing nor the newly elected school board can appoint a new director within this 90-day period, the responsibility falls to the educational service district board to make the appointment. This alternative is considered by some to be even riskier, leading to advocacy for pushing the appointment to the existing board.
Regardless of how you interpret this proposed timeline, it is imperative that motivated individuals who are unafraid to hold the district accountable step up to fill this vacancy. If you feel called to take action, we wholeheartedly encourage you to reach out to us to learn more.
Applications are now being accepted until October 6, 2023 at 11:59 PM.
Together, we have the power to bring about positive change within the district, ensuring a brighter future for our community.
Applicants must live in the district of the position they are applying for
