Board appoints Jim Prochaska to fill vacancy; he takes oath and will serve until special election

The Dubuque Community School District board voted June 8 to appoint Jim Prochaska to fill the board vacancy created by the resignation of Dr. Sarah Jacobitz-Kizzier. The appointment is effective immediately and continues until a successor is qualified following the special election on Sept. 8, 2026.

Board members described Prochaska as having extensive teaching experience and prior service on the board. Prochaska accepted the appointment and took the oath of office during the meeting. He thanked board members and said he looked forward to working with the board: "I was honored to be asked to sit in for Dr. Kizzier... I look forward to working with the previous board that I was on with you guys." The board will place the seat on the Sept. 8 ballot; prospective candidates must file nominating papers with the county auditor and gather 50 signatures to appear on the ballot.

The motion to appoint Prochaska carried on a voice vote. The board placed his term to run until a successor qualifies after the special election.