Forest Lake School Board Selects Three Finalists for Vacancy

The Forest Lake Area Schools board has named three finalists to fill a recent vacancy following an extensive eight-hour meeting that took place on December 4, 2023. The meeting, which extended into the early hours of the morning, ended without a resolution on the vacancy or other critical items on the agenda.

Jill Christenson, a board member, described the previous meeting as “extremely difficult” and highlighted that it had damaged trust among members. Disagreements over the language in a resolution adopted on November 20, 2023, regarding the vacancy-filling process prevented the board from moving forward. Board Chairman Curt Rebelein stated that no further business could be conducted until the issues surrounding the special order were addressed.

During a follow-up meeting on December 6, the board unanimously voted to rescind the November 20 resolution. The new procedure allowed candidates who received at least four votes to advance in the selection process. The finalists chosen are Andi Courneya, Princesa Hansen, and Paul Pease.

Candidates Scot Doboszenski, Laura Ndirangu, and Jim Smith were eliminated prior to the voting, having failed to secure majority support during the previous meeting. Additionally, Kenneth Rutford and Daniel Tuott did not receive the necessary four affirmative votes in the latest session.

Board member Tessa Antonsen expressed gratitude towards all applicants for their patience throughout the process, acknowledging the uncertainty they faced. “So we apologize for that unknown and appreciate so much public involvement and interest in this whole process,” she remarked.

Reactions from board members reflected a desire for a more constructive atmosphere moving forward. Gail Theisen stated, “We do not want that to happen again. That was stressful, that was exhausting, and it was so void of why we’re here.” The board members emphasized their commitment to prioritizing the needs of students and fostering positive relationships.

Chairman Rebelein also addressed the challenges he faced during the previous meeting, admitting that leading a meeting characterized by conflict is difficult. “I’ll be the first to say it’s much easier to preside over a meeting where there’s agreement rather than disagreement and gridlock,” he said.

With the finalists now identified, Rebelein suggested the board and the public take time to reflect on the candidates. He confirmed that further steps in the selection process would be outlined by Friday, with details to be presented at the next board meeting scheduled for December 18, 2023.

The board’s decision marks a significant step towards resolving the vacancy and restoring a sense of order and collaboration within the Forest Lake Area Schools community.