School Board Named Best in State

Brianna Gibbs/KMXT

The Kodiak School Board was recently recognized statewide. During the Association of Alaska School Board’s annual conference the Kodiak Island Board of Education was named the best in the state for 2013.
Recently elected School Board President Katie Oliver said the board accepted the award during the conference on November 9.
“It was a surprise to us. There were a couple of school boards from around the state nominated this year and we were selected. And of course it always feels great to get recognition by your peers for the work that you do. So it was really nice to receive this award, especially collectively as a group. We’ve worked really hard for the past few years so we’re really pleased to be chosen for it.”

Oliver was elected president by her fellow school board members in October, and credited former President Melissa Borton’s role in receiving the award.
“It’s a bit of a treat to be able to receive School Board of the Year on day 14 as the president. So I can’t take too much credit for getting us to the level of recognition, that goes to my predecessor, Melissa Borton, who I had a great time serving with for the past two years and really enjoyed being the vice president and working with her.”
Kodiak was chosen for its level of community engagement, leadership and training, and participation in state and national activities. Likewise, Kodiak’s high performing students also helped influence the school board’s recognition.
“And I also like to think that consistent high quality of educators in our district as well. So I think it’s a win for our kids and our teachers too.”
Oliver said she’s looking forward to serving the school district in her new capacity, and is eager for the upcoming her with her fellow board members.