Yelm Community Schools (YCS) Superintendent Chris Woods took some time during a YCS Board of Directors meeting on Thursday, Jan. 22, to recognize the five board members during “School Board Appreciation Month” in January.
The YCS Board of Directors includes Denise Hendrickson, Bill Hauss, Casey Shaw, Frank King and Ryan Jewell.
“Each of you volunteers countless hours and service to our students, staff, families and community,” Woods said. “The work you do is often behind the scenes, long meetings, deep preparation, difficult conversations and decisions that carry real weight and long-term effect. Much of that goes unseen, and quite frankly, a bunch of it if thankless.”
The superintendent added that service as a school board member means being willing to take criticism when people disagree with decisions — even when those decisions are made “thoughtfully, with care and with the students at the center.”
“It takes courage, resilience and a strong sense of purpose. I want you to know that it does not go unnoticed,” Woods said. “On a personal note, I want to thank each of you for your support, your trust, your guidance and your dedication. I’m very thankful for the partnership we share and for the thoughtful leadership you bring to this district. Your commitment to doing what is best for kids, even when it’s hard, makes a real difference.”
