Yon Will Continue to Chair Pittsfield School Committee
PITTSFIELD, Mass. — Katherine Yon will continue to chair the Pittsfield School Committee.
During the re-organization meeting Wednesday, the committee voted Yon back to the leadership position. Yon has served as chair since 2014.
"We have such important work. At a time when public education is being assailed on many fronts, it is our duty to stand firm for the young people in our charge. All of our students have the right to a high-quality education," Yon said after accepting the nomination.
The former English teacher has been on the committee since 2010. She expressed confidence in her colleagues and staff in the schools that the district will be able to work through the city's current economic struggle.
"Yes these are difficult economic times and students are faced with incredible struggles. However, it is our responsibility to work through these issues and maintain the highest quality education standards," Yon said.
She'll remain with the same vice chairman as previous years as well. Daniel Elias was tapped to continue his work as the vice chairman by a unanimous vote.
The School Committee also welcomed William Cameron and Dennis Powell to the board. The two won election to fill the seats vacated by Pamela Farron and Anthony Reillo, both opted not to run for re-election. Yon and Elias both praised the new members.
"We are so fortunate to have two such well-respected members of our community," Yon said.
Cameron is no stranger to the district. He had previously served on the School Committee in 1992 and then as assistant superintendent for personnel. He left the district for superintendency jobs in Salem and then at the Central Berkshire Regional School District.
"I'm honored to be on the School Committee again," Cameron said.
Yon called Powell a "jack of all trades." The former culinary instructor and restaurant owner is active in many fronts in the community now, with his most known work being as the president of the local chapter of the NAACP.
"I especially admire his desire to get more young people involved in the community," Yon said.
Powell said serving on the School Committee has been a "dream of mine because it involves young people and the shaping of the future." He said education is critical for any society.
"I'm eager to get started. I know everyone on the school committee and have respect for everyone on the School Committee," Powell said.
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