After 22 years on a local school board, one of the members is retiring at the end of July.
Richard Gooding made the announcement during June’s meeting, which was accepted by the board. Gooding first thanked the district voters for allowing him to represent them.
“I also want to thank all the multiple fellow school board members that I’ve had the opportunity to serve alongside with during my tenure. A special thank you to all of you, the current board of education, I would really be remiss if I did not thank my wife, Mary Ellen, of whom this November we will be celebrating our 48th wedding anniversary.”
During his time, Gooding has served with three superintendents and has been part of establishing Tusky Valley’s master facility plan.
“With its implementation of building our new middle-high school, the renovation of the previous middle school with a major addition to become our new elementary school, with the unification of bringing all students and activities to one central campus location. Turning our former high school into the administrative offices as well as opening it back up with the recent opening of the senior center and soon to be opening of the school’s all one health clinic.”
Amy Burrier has been a board member for 11 years and thanked Gooding.
“I remember being a young pup joining this board and I’ll never forget you telling me how it is and what we do, and being my mentor, and I appreciate every time I talk to you. Thank you for making me who I am on this board.”
Benjamin Overton recalled his connection with Gooding.
“Back when you were on the board and hired me to work in the after-school program all those years ago, and just watching how you conducted yourself. Coming onto the board now and being the role model and influence that any board member can look up to, and it’s been an honor to work with you.”
The board has 30 days, from July 31st, to select a new member to serve the unexpired term until December 2026. The application is available at the district’s administrative building or at tvtrojans.org.
Copyright WTUZ Radio Inc., 2025