ELLSWORTH — Mark Stoesz, former Ellsworth High School principal and a district employee for over 30 years, is stepping away from his seat on the school board after moving out of the district.

“I’m very appreciative of the support that the community has provided over the years,” Stoesz said. “I love the Ellsworth community, I love the Ellsworth school system, and in particular, the high school. I feel bad that I had to leave the board a little bit early, but at the same time, I’m pleased that I could at least serve the community in that capacity for the time that I did.”

Stoesz said he is going to miss living in Ellsworth, but is remaining nearby, and will always keep his close connections.

The board is seeking a new member. The vacancy is to fill a term that runs until April 2027, and to apply, residents must fill out a letter of interest with a name, address and phone number as well as answer a list of candidate questions that can be requested from the District Office. Questions about the vacancy can be directed to the District Office by calling 715-273-3900. The letter of interest must be received by the office by July 22, and the candidate questions by July 30. Interviews for the position are set for Aug. 13.

“We need people that want to serve our community,” Stoesz said. “The school board is one of the ways in which you have the greatest impact because you’re working with our students.”

Stoesz expressed a lot of confidence in the current board and school staff. He is excited to see what comes of the referendum construction in the future.

“We have a good school district right now and we have a good school board, so I know they’re going to do a lot of good things,” Stoesz said. “I’m excited for the new building project, and I’m eager to see what that all looks like when that comes to completion here shortly.”

His final note was that anyone looking to join the board should put the students first, and keep them in mind for every decision they make.