White heads home to Twisp; Read is new superintendent

Suellen White attended her final school board meeting in Odessa June 24. Board chairman Ed Deife thanked her for her service to the Odessa School District for the past six years. He also introduced and welcomed Dan Read, the incoming superintendent, whose contract begins July 1.

White thanked the board and community for allowing her to be the superintendent for the past six years. She said she had planned to accept the job only for one year when she first took it on. But she loved the school and community so much and saw so many challenges that could be met that she asked the board to allow her to continue.

White has overseen improvements to the school's infrastructure during her tenure. The school building has had a major facelift, with new windows and insulation to make it more attractive, functional and energy efficient. Compliance with the Americans with Disabilities Act was achieved with wheelchair ramps and remodeled bathrooms.

"It is always my goal to appreciate and celebrate the good work of staff and students," White said. "I worked hard to build and keep trust with those [around me.] The economic recession hit some families hard, but we were able provide summer meals for children, as well as snacks and school supplies for all of our students."

White said she felt gratitude for the opportunity to work with "the finest teachers and support staff." Advanced Placement classes and dual credit opportunities (high school and college simultaneously) were added for high school students on White's watch, and changes have been implemented to meet state-mandated Common Core standards.

"Odessa students are the best!" she continued. "I am so proud to work with them and provide a way to recognize all the good they do for Odessa through community service. And finally, being able to provide all-day kindergarten and in-house preschool are two accomplishments that I expect will reap educational benefits for these students for years to come."