North Thurston school board member resigns. Here’s who’s leaving and how to apply

North Thurston Public Schools board member Jennifer Thomas, the District 3 director who had served a little more than three years on the board, announced her resignation at Tuesday’s board meeting. Her last day will be July 31.

“I would like to share that I will be resigning from my board position,” she said. “It has nothing to do with the district or the board. I absolutely love this district, and I love my peers and colleagues on this board. I have loved working with the staff and continuing to build voices for our students and our teachers.”

Thomas said she needed to step aside because of family and professional obligations. She has five children, four of whom are teenagers who attend schools in the district. She also runs a small business, working as a mindset coach to help athletes and others, Thomas said.

“I actually have collaborated with a local AAU team, and I do mindset coaching for their players, their parents and their coaches,” she said. She also works as a clinical nurse educator.

The board voted to accept her resignation.

“Your contributions and your selflessness as a community member, as a parent educator, a health care provider, a business owner and military spouse have been instrumental in moving our district forward,” said Board President Gretchen Maliska.

Superintendent Troy Oliver said, “She has been a great voice for students, families and parents in our district, and she will continue to do so in a different capacity, and we appreciate her time and effort that she gave to the board.”

Thomas was appointed to the board in March 2021 to replace former board member Melissa “Mel” Hartley. She was later elected in 2022.

Information about how to apply for the position is expected to be posted on the North Thurston website this week. The board will then accept applications and appoint someone to fill the role until the next election in November 2025, when the appointee will have to decide whether to run for the seat. Board members serve four-year terms.

District 3 is in the eastern portion of the county. Salish Middle School, River Ridge High School and Meadows Elementary are in District 3, according to district information.

Some dates to keep in mind:

▪ 3 p.m. Aug. 7: Deadline for applications and nominations.

▪ Aug. 8: Application and nomination screening.

▪ Aug. 13: Interviews.

▪ Sept. 3: Appoint the new director of District 3.

Although she is stepping down, Thomas said she will remain involved with the district. “I will still continue to use my voice for positive aspects,” she said.