La Conner Schools hires new counselor

La Conner School board members did something Monday night that they haven't done in a very long time: They approved hiring a new counselor for the middle and high school campus.

Eric Crinklaw, most recently with Bonney Lake High School in the Sumner School District, will succeed Lori Buher, who is retiring after 27 years.

The decision took place during a 75-minute hybrid session ahead of its annual retreat scheduled from 2-8 p.m. today.

"It's an honor to be here," said Crinklaw, who has ties to the Concrete and Friday Harbor school districts.

"Eric will be returning to the Northwest 2B (League)," Middle and High School Principal Christine Tripp told board members. "We're really excited about him joining our team."

A new student representative was also welcomed. Board President Susie Deyo administered the oath of office to Josi Straathof, who fills the vacancy created by Eleanor Drews’ graduation.

In other business, Deyo read into the record a letter submitted by parent Jennifer Fix asking that district safety specialist John Aguilar not be a victim of budget cuts for the 2023-24 school year.

Fix cited Aguilar's ability to connect with students in an upbeat, positive manner. She noted how he greets students in the morning and is the last person to leave school after a nighttime athletics contest or special event.

"He's on call 24/7," she wrote, adding that reducing Aguilar's role could cost the district more than any salary savings it might realize.

Director of Planning and Operations Bobby Vaughn shared the excellent report received by the transportation department following the Washington State Patrol’s bi-annual safety inspection.

"This award and recognition is huge," said Vaughn, "given the obstacles the department had to overcome last semester."

Vaughn referred to retirements and resignations of several department veterans, including longtime director Kim Pedroza – now a school board member – who took a transportation job mid-year with Stanwood Schools.

The district is actively seeking bus drivers for upcoming school year, Vaughn said.