OAISD Board welcomes new, re-elected members following delegate vote

The Ottawa Area Intermediate School District Board of Education recently welcomed three new members.

OAISD Board welcomes new, re-elected members following delegate vote
[Courtesy photo]

HOLLAND — The Ottawa Area Intermediate School District Board of Education recently welcomed three new members.

Delegates from 10 of the 11 public school district boards of education met Monday, June 2, electing three individuals to the board. 

The election saw incumbent Zeeland resident Rick Dernberger re-elected for a full term, Jenison resident Jennifer Cymbola elected for another full term, and John Siemion from Grand Haven elected for a partial term.

Dernberger and Cymbola will serve full terms expiring June 30, 2031. Siemion's partial term concludes June 30, 2027.

OAISD Board President Randy Schipper expressed optimism regarding the newly constituted board, according to a press release. 

"The new board members bring a wealth of experience, passion, and strong commitment to education that will contribute to our educational community's continued growth and success," Schipper said.

Superintendent Dr. Kyle Mayer congratulated the new members, the release indicated.  

"On behalf of Ottawa Area ISD, we extend our congratulations to Rick Dernberger, Jennifer Cymbola, and John Siemion on their upcoming service as board members and look forward to their invaluable contributions and the positive impact they will make in their respective roles," Mayer added.

The election saw significant support for the successful candidates. Dernberger and Siemion each received votes from all 10 of the local district boards of education represented at the meeting. Cymbola garnered votes from seven local districts, while Amanda Price, who also sought a full-term position, received votes from three districts.

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The OAISD plays a crucial role in the region's educational landscape. It collaborates with local schools and communities to support educational needs from birth through adulthood in the Ottawa region. 

By pooling resources and delivering services regionally, OAISD provides essential programs and services efficiently and cost-effectively to local K-12 public, charter, and parochial schools, as well as to families and adult learners.

— Heather VanDyke covers northern Ottawa County for the Ottawa News Network. Contact her at newsroom@ottawanewsnetwork.org.