WYOMING COUNTY, WV (LOOTPRESS) – Two members of the Wyoming County Board of Education have issued public apologies following a several-minute argument during a recent board meeting.
Board members Michael R. Prichard and Dr. Doug Lester each released statements apologizing for their conduct during the Monday night meeting.
Board President Allan Stiltner also issued a statement addressing the incident on behalf of the board.
In his letter, Prichard wrote, “I want to apologize for my behavior during this past Monday night’s board meeting. I regret that my conduct disrupted the meeting and distracted from the important work of our schools.”
Prichard said he has served on the Board of Education for 28 years and stated that he “care[s] deeply about the students, staff, and families of Wyoming County.”
“I take responsibility for my actions and recognize that I should have handled the situation differently. I am committed to moving forward in a more respectful and professional manner,” Prichard wrote.
Lester also apologized for his actions during the meeting.
“I want to offer a sincere apology for my actions during this past Monday night’s board meeting. My response did not reflect the level of professionalism and composure expected of a member of the Board of Education,” Lester wrote.
Lester added, “Serving the students and families of this county is a responsibility I take seriously. In hindsight, I should have handled the situation differently and with greater restraint.”
Board President Allan Stiltner said the conduct during the meeting “did not reflect the professionalism and respect our community expects from its Board of Education.”
“On behalf of the board, I want to acknowledge that the situation should have been handled better,” Stiltner wrote. “As Board President, I recognize my responsibility to help ensure future meetings reflect the professionalism and respect our community expects.”
Stiltner said the board remains committed to “treating one another with respect and keeping our focus where it belongs — on the students and schools of Wyoming County.”
