Four candidates interviewed for District 2 seat; board authorizes attorney to seek special election in November

The Page County School Board interviewed four applicants for the vacant District 2 seat on March 26 and later authorized the board attorney to file pleadings to schedule a special election in November.

Interviewees emphasized different priorities. John Griffith, a local resident who works in safety and training at the Harrisonburg Electric Commission, cited community ties and a focus on school safety, consistent engagement and long‑term planning. "I've coached hundreds of kids over the last 20 plus years," he said while describing community connections that inform his perspective.

Karen Markham described decades of experience in education and federal vocational rehabilitation work and emphasized stronger parent‑school coordination and community involvement. Cody Kenry, whose background is in insurance‑compliance leadership, said budgeting and prioritizing student needs would guide difficult board choices. Lisa Markowitz, a family nurse practitioner with 36 years in public health and prior Page County Health‑Advisory service, highlighted attendance, behavioral and mental‑health access, and transitions for students with special needs.

After the interviews, the board voted to authorize the school‑board attorney to file the necessary pleadings to schedule a special election for the District 2 vacancy in November. The motion to authorize the filing was moved, seconded and approved by voice vote.

Board members thanked the candidates for participating in the process and noted that the interview materials helped the board evaluate who might serve while the special‑election schedule proceeds.

The board did not appoint a candidate at the meeting; instead it moved forward with the legal step to set an election date this November.