Highlands to conduct public interviews for school board vacancy

A new Highlands School Board member is expected to be appointed next week.

The school board on Monday night accepted the resignation of board member Justin Kipp, who was not at the meeting.

“It is with regret that I make the motion,” board member Gene Witt said.

Kipp announced his decision in July, stating personal reasons.

District residents interested in learning more about Kipp’s potential replacement can sit in during public interviews at the board’s regular meeting, Aug. 18.

Elected in 2023, Kipp had about two years left on his term. He represented Region 1, which includes Fawn and most of Tarentum.

Board President Deb Lehew said members will conduct interviews at the start of the regular meeting, which begins at 7 p.m.

There were three people who submitted resumes for the position. Only two are eligible, however, because one of them does not live in Region 1, district officials said.

The board is expected to appoint a replacement following the interviews. The person appointed will serve through December. They would have to run in the fall General Election to have a chance at filling the remaining two years on the term.