Youngdahl named new LPODS board chairman

SANDPOINT — A few changes are in store for the Lake Pend Oreille School District as the next school year approaches.

At the annual school board meeting last week, longtime board chair Vickie Pfeifer decided to give up her premiere seat, one she’s held for nine years. In her place, Steve Youngdahl will take over duties as board chairperson. Mindy Cameron will continue in her role as vice chair.

“I really did enjoy being chair all those years,” she said. “It was a really positive experience for me.”

Pfeifer made decision after evaluating her other time commitments and realizing she ran the risk of stretching herself thin. In addition to family and board responsibilities, she was working close to full time. She decided to relinquish her status as chairperson rather than risking an overwhelming workload.

“It just gives me a little bit less to do right now,” she said. “I was glad to see Steve was willing to step into the position.”

Although Pfeifer will still maintain her role as a board member, the chairperson retains a few more responsibilities that can add on the hours. The individual manages the board meetings, acts as a spokesperson for the group and works with district staff to prepare meeting agendas.

However, the time commitment wasn’t Pfeifer’s only factor in giving up the position. After holding it for so long, she felt it was time to give someone else a shot.

“I’ve been doing it for nine years, and it just felt like the right time to step down,” she said.

Youngdahl, meanwhile, is happy to expand his role with the school district.

“I’d like to maintain the continuity that Vickie set, but I’ve got some big shoes to fill,” he said. “She was an exemplary board chair.”

Although the board structure has shifted somewhat, members don’t expect any significant new dynamics in its governance. Having established an effective collaboration together, Youngdahl said members aim to continue the work they’ve begun.

“Everyone on the board feels good about what we’ve done so far, and we really don’t anticipate much changing,” he said.

According to Pfeifer, board members are also pleased with newly-established Superintendent Shawn Woodward’s progress in his new position. Woodward will spend several days in Boise this week at a conference designed for incoming Idaho superintendents. The trip will cap off a month of familiarization and hard work in preparation for the school year.

“Shawn is doing a great job,” Pfeifer said. “He’s been getting around and talking to different people both in the district and in the community.”