Though elected to a four-year term only two months prior, Martin Board of Education member Rodney Pillars Monday evening resigned his seat, effectively immediately.

Pillars was one of six new members elected to the board in the November general election.

Superintendent and Chief Financial Officer Samantha Ball said, “Rodney did not outline a reason prior to his departure from the meeting last night.”

Melanie Conley, who was elected to the open two-year seat Nov. 8, was chosen president of the board. Also elected were Vince Tuinstra, vice president; Jeff Brinkhuis, treasurer, and Teri Beilby, secretary. 

In other business at the board meeting Monday night, the board:

• Heard a presentation focusing on leadership skills and board/superintendent roles/responsibilities provided by Dr. Lori Tubbergen-Clark.
• Filled out the board committees, appointing delegates to the Allegan County School Board Association and Martin Education Foundation.
• Approved the hire of Lorinda Goins to fill the position of supervisor of specialized instruction. 
• The next board meeting will be on Saturday, Jan. 14, for an all-day strategic planning session.