Experienced Board Members Step Down
Two long-serving members of the Bear Lake Schools Board of Education, with a combined 28 years of experience on the board, have announced their resignations, effective July 31. Their decision marks the end of an era for the district and comes after they submitted their resignation letters during the board’s regular meeting on July 16.
Bethany Merrill, the board president, and Greg Babinec, the secretary, have played significant roles in shaping the direction of the school district over the years. Their departure has prompted reflections from the superintendent and other community members about the impact they’ve had on the district.
Superintendent Jake Veith expressed his gratitude for the time both individuals have spent working to support students and the broader community. “They have many, many years of experience,” he said. “We appreciate your leadership and understanding. We appreciate everything you’ve done for the students, for the community, for individuals. Your character is unmatched and we appreciate everything that you’ve done.”
Babinec, who has served on the board for 17 years, shared his thoughts in his resignation letter, noting that the district is in capable hands with the current administration. “It’s awesome to see this school growing and accomplish the things it’s accomplished,” he said during the meeting. His comments reflect a sense of pride in the progress the school has made under the guidance of its leaders.
Merrill, on the other hand, cited retirement as the reason for her decision to step down. She also mentioned that her growing family in the Ann Arbor area influenced her choice to vacate her seat on the board. “Retirement is calling,” she said. She emphasized that the district has come a long way since she joined the board, attributing much of the success to the collaborative efforts of the board members, the administration, and the community.
“I went from being a school that was going to be pretty much non-existent, to now we’re thriving,” she said. “I appreciate that and I think it has a lot to do with the board members that we’ve had, the administration and of course the community who backed us on all the approvals of the bonds through the years.”
Veith also mentioned that the district may soon welcome two new board members. These appointments could be approved during the next meeting, which is scheduled for 7 p.m. on August 13 in the school media center. This transition represents a new chapter for the Bear Lake Schools, one that will be shaped by fresh perspectives and continued dedication to student success.
As the community prepares for these changes, there is a sense of appreciation for the legacy left behind by Merrill and Babinec. Their contributions have helped build a strong foundation for the future of the district, and their influence will likely be felt for years to come.
