Bellah elected school board president
By David H. Waller
Matt Bellah was unanimously elected president of the Albany ISD Board of Trustees during Monday night’s regular meeting, stepping into leadership as the district looks ahead to major facility decisions and a possible bond election.
Bellah succeeds Robert Montgomery, who stepped down after serving as board president for the past seven years. Montgomery has been a member of the board for 27 years and will continue to serve as a trustee.
“I do think it is time to have some younger leadership with the bond and everything else in front of us,” Montgomery said. “I’ll still be here, but I’m looking forward to seeing where this new group leads.”
The board also elected Ginny Ivy as vice president and Kalico Leech as secretary.
Monday’s meeting marked a transition for the district in more ways than one. Newly elected trustee John Gallagher took the oath of office and participated in his first meeting since winning a seat earlier this month.
The board also approved the formation of a Facilities and Bond Committee, which will study building conditions, space needs, and long-term planning. The group will make recommendations as the district considers a future bond election. Gallagher will serve as the board’s representative on the committee.
Committee members include Tisha Wilkins, Erika Varela, Brandon Flowers, Jana Kitchens, Jennifer Marshall, Kenzie Fairchild, Robin Balliew, Brandi Lehew, Trent Tankersley, and Michelle Bellah.
Superintendent Daryl Stuard said the committee will evaluate the possible demolition of aging elementary and high school buildings, as well as new construction needs. One idea under consideration is moving sixth grade to the junior high campus—an option that could streamline staffing and reduce costs if the bond is successful.
“There’s still a lot of evaluating to do to make sure it’s what’s best for our kids,” Stuard said. “But it’s a conversation worth having as we plan for the future.”
The board also granted Stuard the authority to make hiring decisions through August, allowing the district to fill vacancies during the summer months without calling special meetings. Stuard said trustees will be informed of all hires.
During his report, Stuard thanked staff for their work throughout the year and recognized several upcoming events, including junior high awards, a field day, and graduation, which is scheduled for 7:00 p.m. Friday. He also mentioned retirements, student accomplishments in athletics and academics, and the district’s adoption of the Red Rover program to streamline administrative processes.
