Ark Valley News - Board member’s experience ‘rewarding’

Rhonda Price (left) gives Richard Harris a plaque.

Board member’s experience ‘rewarding’
By Chris Strunk
Last Updated: December 14, 2017

When he made a motion to adjourn the Dec. 11 meeting, Richard Harris cast his final vote as a member of the Valley Center school board, ending a circuitous 10-year tenure.

“It has been a challenge learning how a school district works," Harris said. “It has been rewarding seeing what we've accomplished."

In a four-way race for three seats, Harris lost re-election in November. Incumbents Brad Barbour and Bart Balthazor won re-election, while newcomer Jason Reffner took the third seat.

Harris said he's seen the district change during the past decade, including steady enrollment growth and the construction of a new high school.

“I think this is a premier district and it's because of the staff we have," he said.

Harris said he will continue to be active in supporting the school district.

“Valley Center is an excellent school district," Harris said. “I'll still be at football games, basketball games and other school functions."

Harris' membership on the board wasn't a straight line. During the past 12 years, he won two elections and lost three.

He was first elected in 2005 and lost a bid for re-election four years later. However, he was appointed in 2009 to fill an unexpired term through 2011.

He lost another election in 2011, but was appointed to the board in May 2013 after winning election to a four-year term that started in July 2013.

When asked what advice he would give to new board members, Harris said to keep an open mind.

“Pay attention to the other six members on the board," he said. “Come in with an open mind."

During his final board meeting, Harris was given a plaque and a lifetime activity pass.

Board President Rhonda Price thanked Harris for his service.