XENIA —The Xenia Community Schools board of education held a special meeting Monday to discuss the resignation of Dr. Pam Callahan.
A board member since 2015, has sited her busy lifestyle as cause for her resignation, effective March 1.
“My decision is based on the difficulties I have experienced while trying to do the best for the district, the unnecessary tension I have felt and the stress I have experienced by trying to manage my incredibly overbooked life,” said Callahan, a lifelong Xenia resident.
“I feel it is time to step back from my current responsibilities as I no longer feel I can make a positive impact on the district as a member of the board,” said Callahan in a letter to the superintendent, the treasurer, and fellow board members.
The board will be sending out notifications to fill the seat — applicants will have until March 10 (by 4 p.m.), to have their paperwork turned into the school treasurer, Carolyn Huber. The board will review applications beginning March 17 and interview those who qualify by March 25.
Under Ohio Rev. Code, section 3313.11, each person selected by the board to fill a vacancy shall hold office for the shorter of the following periods: until the completion of the unexpired term, or until the first day of January immediately following the next regular board of education election taking place more than 90 days after a person is selected by the board to fill the vacancy.
“We appreciate all the time and dedication that Ms. Callahan has put before the schools and the board. We wish her the best in her future endeavors,” said Joshua Day, board president.
XCS Superintendent Dr. Gabe Lofton agreed with Day after the meeting’s conclusion.
“We’re definitely going to miss Dr. Callahan and we thank her for her dedication to the community.” said Lofton.
Callahan, a Xenia High School graduate, holds a Doctorate from Capella University, a Master of Science in Education and Allied Professors from the University of Dayton, a Bachelor of Science in Health Professions from the Kettering College of Medical Arts and an Associate of Applied Science from Sinclair Community College where she is currently employed as an associate professor.
“I have been and always will be a strong supporter of public education and specifically XCS,” added Callahan. “I know good things are happening in this district and hope to continue to champion those accomplishments. I am confident that I can continue to support the district albeit in a different capacity.”
