BLACKFOOT — Longterm Snake River School District trustee Julie VanOrden officially announced her resignation during a school board meeting on Wednesday night.

VanOrden will step down from her 10-year post at the end of this month to pursue another public calling. She was elected to serve as the Position B State Representative for District 31 during the General Election in November, and she will take office in January.

“It has been a pleasure to serve on the Board,” she said, adding that the opportunity has helped her to grow professionally. “We are one of the most respected boards in the State of Idaho.”

The other trustees presented VanOrden with a plaque on Wednesday, and expressed their appreciation for her years of service.

“It has been a great opportunity to serve with Julie. I appreciate her leadership,” said Chairman Korden Wray.

Trustee Steve Reader agrees.

“She’s been a model for all of us to learn from,” he said.

The Board is currently looking for a Zone 1 candidate to fill the vacancy, and could name a replacement as early as next month.

During their meeting on Wednesday, school board members also discussed ongoing efforts to improve education at Snake River Junior High School. Principal Roger Thomas said they are in the process of implementing several new programs, which will give teachers more collaboration opportunities, get parents more involved in their children’s educational goals and provide students with additional opportunities to get help with their studies.

The Board also met with Arynne Hoge, the district’s Response to Intervention (RTI) coordinator, during its meeting on Wednesday. Hoge said they are continuing efforts to implement a solid RTI system, which will provide students with the help they need to be successful. The pyramid approach allows teachers to work with students in groups or individually to help them meet their needs.