Indian River district honors board members for service

DAGSBORO — The Indian River School District recognized three former board of education members for their commitment Monday.

James Fritz, Madeline Moses and Dr. Heather Statler received plaques and kudos from superintendent Dr. Jay Owens.

Earlier this year, Mr. Fritz and Ms. Moses vacated their District 1 school board seats because they moved out of the area. Their positions were assumed by Kelly Kline and Lisa Hudson Briggs in late February.

Dr. Statler did not seek reelection in the May vote. Her District 3 seat was claimed by former Indian River teacher, principal and superintendent Mark Steele, who was unopposed.

Mr. Fritz served two tenures on the board between 2012-24. He also acted as the Buildings & Grounds Committee chair for many years.

“He facilitated many of our discussions associated with our district finances, and he was instrumental in providing structure to our processes associated with our student activities funds,” said Dr. Owens, adding that Mr. Fritz “was a very vocal board member and was an advocate for our district. I worked with him very closely during his time here, and I appreciated his guidance, support and leadership.”

Ms. Moses was on the board from 2021-24.

“She is a passionate advocate for our students and was extremely supportive of the district. We greatly appreciate her commitment to IRSD, and I thank you for all the great conversations we had in relation to the district in helping us grow,” the superintendent said.

Lastly, Dr. Statler, who served on the board from 2015-24, initiated and chaired the Special Education Task Force, “which we still honor to this day,” Dr. Owens said.

She also developed the district’s Special Education Ambassador recognition program and chaired the Curriculum Committee for some time.

“She is an extreme advocate for premier educational services for students,” Dr. Owens added. “I appreciate all our conversations and your support and guidance over many years.”

Ms. Kline and Ms. Hudson Briggs will serve out the current four-year terms, through June 30, 2025.

Dr. Donald Hattier, who also did not seek another stint on the board after having served 22 years, was unable to attend Monday’s meeting, so he will be honored at a later time.

The District 4 seat held by Dr. Hattier was claimed by Anita West-Werner, who topped Joshua Hudson in the May election.

Board members Derek Cathell and Kimberly Taylor were unopposed for the two District 5 seats this year.