Bartle to lead MUSD governing board

Scott Bartle is the new president of Maricopa Unified School District’s governing board. Torri Anderson will serve as vice president.

Both terms are for one year.

“I’m honored to represent the board and look forward to humbly serving Maricopa Unified School District’s students, teachers, staff and all Maricopa taxpayers,” said Bartle.

Outgoing board president Geoff Goddard indicated he was not seeking reelection. “It has been an honor to serve for the past two years. I think we have righted a ship headed in a dangerous direction, and I am confident we will reach our goal of educational excellence,” he told board members and those attending Wednesday’s governing board meeting.

Goddard nominated board member Carrie Vargas for the presidency, but that motion was defeated by a 2-3 vote. Vargas then nominated Patti Coutre; that vote was also defeated, 2-3. Bartle’s nomination came from Torri Anderson. It passed 3-2, as did Anderson’s nomination as vice president.

Outgoing board members Tracy Davis and Tim White were both recognized for their service. Davis spent six years as a governing board member while White served eight years on the board. 

Both received standing ovations in appreciation for their service, as well as a solar-powered globe. “The globes are a thank you for your world class service,” said Superintendent Jeff Kleck.

Desert Wind Middle School and Maricopa High School received plaques for their efforts in promoting clinics, in partnership with the county, where 100 students were immunized. According to MUSD Director of Nursing Marilyn Wyant, MUSD has a 99.5 percent immunization compliance rate.

MUSD’s next governing board meeting will be held at the district office administration building on Wednesday, Jan. 26.

Photo by Joyce Hollis