The Webster Parish School Board met in a special session Thursday, April 2, to consider an appointment to the vacant District 4 seat for the unexpired term following the death of board member Jonathan Guthrie.
Guthrie, who previously held the seat, died March 14, creating the vacancy.
Board members voted unanimously to appoint his widow, Robin Guthrie, to serve in the position until the next general election. Two members, Jana Watson of District 6 and Charles Strong of District 3, were absent from the meeting. A roll call vote was conducted, and the motion passed without opposition.
Ronnie Rhymes of District 5 spoke in support of the appointment.
“Jonathan was a real asset to the board … Jonathan served his first term admirably, and I know his wife will too. He was a fine man, and we’re going to miss him,” Rhymes said.
Following the vote, Robin Guthrie was sworn in by Judge Sherb Sentell III, with Superintendent Rowland holding Jonathan Guthrie’s Bible during the ceremony.
“I just want to honor Jonathan,” Guthrie said.
The board’s next regular meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, April 14, at 6 PM at Harper Pathways to Excellence. The meeting will include end-of-year honors ceremonies, and the public is invited to attend.