Dressed in suits and ties, Tom Odom and Mike Burnette raised their right hands at the onset of the Oconee County School Board meeting Monday to take their oaths of office.
Odom succeeds David Weeks as chairman, and Burnette occupies post 4, formerly held by Mike Hunter. Returning member Wayne Bagley, post 5, was also sworn in. They will serve terms of four years that will end on Dec. 31, 2016.
Probate Court Judge David Anglin presided over the brief ceremony as each promised to respect the position and act responsibly with taxpayers' money.
Superintendent Dr. Jason Branch welcomed the new and returning members and said he's looking forward to working with the team.
"I know that we all have the best interest of the kids at heart and I look forward to continuing the good work that our leaders are doing in the system with each of you," he said.
Both Odom and Burnette agreed to forgo compensation for 2013, a decision made by the previous board in June 2012.
Also during the meeting, Kim Argo was nominated for the position of 2013 vice chair, and it was recommended that Mark Thomas serve as the legislative liaison. A vote to confirm the nominations will take place at next Monday's regular meeting.
Terms for Argo and Thomas end on Dec. 31, 2014.
Contact information for Branch and all five members is posted on the Board's website at eboard.eboardsolutions.com/AboutUs.
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