RYAN SCOTT OTTNEY

PDT Staff Writer

After a four-year absence, Sheila Pack-Riggs has rejoined the Clay Local Board of Education to complete the unexpired term left vacant by Annie Riffe.

Raised in Clay Township, Pack-Riggs graduated from Clay High School in 1978. She was previously an elected member of the school board between 2000 and 2008, and she was a part of the school campaign to pass a local bond issue to build a new school. In 2008, she moved away from the school district and gave up her seat on the school board. Three years ago she moved back to the district and said she is very impressed with the new building that opened this year.

“It’s really impressive. What a wonderful opportunity for the kids that go to Clay and also for the teacher and parents. Everyone gains from the new school,” she said.

When school board member Annie Riffe resigned in February, the school board began a search for qualified individuals to complete her unexpired term which ends in 2014. Seeing the opening, Pack-Riggs sent her letter of interest and was officially re-appointed by the school board during its March meeting.

“We publicized the opening on our school board and we had 11 outstanding inquiries. We selected Mrs. Riggs because of her previous experience on the board. We think she brings a lot of knowledge and experience to the table and we look forward to working with her in the future,” Clay School Board President Bill Warnock said.

Pack-Riggs said she is pleased to be back on the board, and she will ask voters for permanent election when her term expires.

“I love the district and I am proud of the school district, and I just want the best for our children that attend the school,” she said.

The next regular meeting of the Clay School Board is April 19, at 7 p.m., in the office of the school treasurer.

Ryan Scott Ottney can be reached at 740-353-3101, ext. 235, or rottney@heartlandpublications.com.