Two school board members were recognized on Tuesday for their service to the district. Both chose not to run again for another term.
Jeff Bittner leaves the district with his goal accomplished.
Bittner served one term, from 2017 - 2021. His concerns about district climate and culture and the impact on students led him to seek a spot on the board.
He feels the board hit a home run with the current leadership team. “The momentum of the district has skyrocketed,” he said. The climate/culture change has resulted in the district's ability to recruit and retain quality staff. He is also proud of the fact that the open enrollment trend has stabilized and improved.
“I feel good leaving the board where it’s at, moving forward,” he said. “I always felt we could be the best district in the state. There is no reason for students to go elsewhere with all the programs we offer.”
Bittner feels the recent board election is a barometer of the district’s health. The last election saw more than 10 candidates vying for seats. Last week there were three candidates for three open seats. Who wins when there is a positive culture and climate? "Students and staff,” he said.
Nancy Manson is passionate about Ottumwa Schools.
Nancy was an elementary teacher at Douma, Agassiz, and Eisenhower for 34 years, retiring as a second grade teacher at Eisenhower. During her years, she served on EVERY school/district committee except the calendar committee. She enjoyed teaching, meetings, and serving on committees. “I liked that,” she said. “That is why I ran for the board, I enjoyed the camaraderie of the district.”
She was selected to fill a board term after a resignation in 2016, then ran for the board in 2017. She has served 5 years. During her tenure, she is most proud of SparkTank, Pickwick Early Childhood Center, and helping under-resourced students. “I always tried to put my personal feelings aside. It's always been what’s in the best interest of the students and district.”
She continues to serve her school, district and community through volunteer efforts. She has served on Eisenhower’s Outdoor Learning Center committee forever and most recently helped to create a Science Camp utilizing Eisenhower’s outdoor resource. Last year, due to Covid, she was unable to work with the fifth grade student campers but this year, she spent the day with other retired Eisenhower staff leading sessions. She was also in charge of sorting/organizing Box Tops for Eisenhower. Community volunteer efforts include the Lord’s Cupboard, Food Bank of Iowa, and Pioneer Ridge Nature Center.
The recent birth of her grandson is the reason she didn’t run for another board term. “I want to be a grandmother,” she said. “But I will continue to be a supporter of the OCSD, this is my district.”
Nancy Manson with Superintendent McGrory and Dave Weilbrenner, board president.