Washington School District to Hold Farewell, Open House for Brunworth

The Washington School District will hold an open house this Monday, April 16, from 6-7 p.m. at the board of education office in honor of Diane Brunworth, who will be retiring later that night after 24 years on the board.

Superintendent Dr. Lori VanLeer said the public is invited to attend.

Brunworth will officially retire from the board when new members are sworn in at the board’s meeting, which begins at 7 p.m.

“Diane has given many years to the district,” VanLeer said. “Board service is volunteer service and she donated her time to the district because she cares about the students, teachers, administrators, support staff, district as a whole and the community.”

VanLeer noted that Brunworth also has been involved in advocating and supporting public schools at the state and national levels.

“We are grateful to her for that,” she said. “We wish her nothing but the best as she enjoys retirement with her family.”

Brunworth and the current board will certify the April 3 election results at their Monday night meeting, and then adjourn to swear in new members.

The results don’t include board elections, as only two people filed for the two open seats on the board — incumbent Todd Geisert, and Kevin Blackburn, who will replace Brunworth.

The district had proposed a $65 million bond issue on the April ballot, but the measure was rejected by voters.

With the new board in place, members will review program evaluations for the district’s health services, library and media services and food service departments.

Officials will hold a post-bond issue discussion and receive a monthly financial update.

Contracts also likely will be approved for buying a new building and grounds service truck and restoration of the middle school gym floor.