Colonial School Board appoints Carlos DePries to District G vacancy

The Colonial School District Board of Education voted 5-1 on Sept. 9 to appoint Carlos DePries to the District G vacancy after a public interview with two candidates. Board President PQ called the meeting to consider two applicants who had filed for the vacancy and explained the interview format before the candidates answered questions from board members. Candidates introduced themselves on the record: Carlos DePries, who during his turn said "my full name is Carlos Andres Ramirez," and Tanya Kearns, a parent and long-time district volunteer. The candidates each answered a series of questions from board members on topics including district strengths and weaknesses, community engagement and potential conflicts of interest. DePries described his community-organizing and outreach background and said he works as "the senior community relation for WM." Kearns said she has volunteered in the district for about 30 years, has two William Penn graduates, and previously worked in preschool and Head Start programs. After the interview, Board member Christine Smith moved to appoint Carlos DePries; Philip Breeding seconded the motion. President PQ conducted a roll-call vote. Members Ron Handy, Philip Breeding, Christine Smith, Dr. Dorsey and President PQ voted yes; Mister Lawls cast the lone no vote. The motion passed, 5-1. The board noted the appointment covers the remainder of the current term through the next board election in May, when the appointee would have to run to fill the remainder of the term. The board said it would arrange a swearing-in before the October meeting and that district staff would provide a mentoring and onboarding plan. No legal authorities or additional conditions were cited at the time of the vote. The board president also thanked both candidates for their service and encouraged continued community engagement by the unsuccessful candidate.