Highlands School District seeking to fill board vacancy in Region 1

Highlands School Board member Justin Kipp is stepping down.

Kipp, a representative in Region 1, cited personal reasons for his resignation, which is effective Aug. 1.

“It has nothing to do with anything regarding the district,” said Kipp, who was elected in 2023.

He has about two years remaining on his term.

The district is seeking applicants to fill the vacancy through the first Monday of December.

Residents must be 18 or older and must have lived in the district for at least a year. They must live in Region 1, which includes Fawn and most of Tarentum.

Superintendent Monique Mawhinney said the school board will appoint a replacement, who will serve until December. They would need to run in the November election to fill the remaining two years of the term.

Kipp thanked the Highlands community and said he has made many friends during his time on the board.

“I have gotten to know so many of the staff personally that put into light what a wonderful district this really is,” he said. “I am very proud to say that any decision or vote I have made has been in the best interest for this community and this district.

“I would also like to thank all of the residents of our community for their trust and support in me for this position to do the right thing.”

Anyone interested in applying for the seat can email a letter of interest board Secretary Kate Rich at krich@goldenrams.com.

The deadline to apply is 4 p.m. Aug. 8.