Board thanks Watts for service

The Whitefish School Board on May 9 said farewell to board chairman Shawn Watts, who joined the board in 2011 and served two terms.

Trustee Ruth Harrison presented Watts with a gift at the end of the meeting. Watts didn’t seek re-election during this month’s election.

“You’re generous, you’re insightful, you do everything just marvelously well, except I know the way to make you squirm is to compliment you in public,” she said, drawing a laugh from the board.

Harrison pointed to Watts’ roles in the district’s strategic planning, superintendent evaluation, arts and technology development and the realization of the Center for Sustainability and Entrepreneurship as key points during his tenure.

“Shawn has been invaluable to the board for six years now. Your insights and your ability to cut right to the center of an issue is so valuable and I for one really appreciate it and we’ll miss you,” Harrison said.

Watts said that while he needs to step into a different role, he still wants to be involved in the continued improvement of the district.

“It’s been an honor, I’m humbled. For all of you who are educators ... it’s a noble profession” Watts said. “It’s been a privilege to be a part of it, and I want to continue to be a part of it, just in a different way. I appreciate what I’ve learned from all of you.”