Get Full Government Meeting Transcripts, Videos, & Alerts Forever!
Get email alerts on the Board Recognition topic
No spam. Unsubscribe anytime.
Board honors Dave Francis for 30 years of service
Summary
The Pennsylvania School Boards Association honored longtime Altoona Area School District director Dave Francis for 30 years on the school board; Francis reflected on changes and thanked colleagues.
The Altoona Area School District Board of School Directors and the Pennsylvania School Boards Association recognized longtime board member David “Dave” Francis for 30 years of service at the board’s August meeting.
Saetha Guynes, a representative of the Pennsylvania School Boards Association’s Central Region, presented a plaque and thanked Francis for his long service. “It is my distinct honor and privilege to travel here today to honor Mr. Francis for 30 years of school board service to the Altoona community,” Guynes said. “We at PSBA are so happy to celebrate this moment with you, and thank you for your service.”
Francis, who told the board he has served alongside four superintendents over his tenure, reflected on challenges and rewards of the role. He recalled a period when the district faced a $1.5 million deficit — a decision point that led to a tax increase — and noted the difficult nature of some board decisions. “You make people happy, make people mad,” Francis said, describing the highs and lows of long-term service.
Board members and staff offered tributes during the meeting; the board president called the milestone “a phenomenal accomplishment” and said Francis has played an integral role in renovations, growth and other district progress. Francis said he will remain for a short transition period ahead of his retirement and thanked colleagues for their support.
Ending: The PSBA presentation and the board’s remarks marked the start of an extended recognition of Francis’s service; Francis will continue to participate in the district for a short transition period before leaving the board.
