BLUE SPRINGS, Missouri (KCTV) — At its August meeting, the Blue Springs School Board elected Rebeca Swank as its new president after Bobby Hawk resigned earlier this year.
The Board opened the meeting with comments from members.
“Sometimes dark clouds gather, but they will never detract from the continued excellence that is a tradition in the Blue Springs School District and our school board,” said board member Rhonda Gilstrap. “Despite the challenges, our future looks very bright. This board will play an important role in the future of the district as we serve others and continue to build trust. We will grow from these challenges.”
After several women came forward with allegations of abuse, Bobby Hawk resigned as senior pastor of EPIC Church and also resigned from his position as school board chair, creating a vacancy.
The board voted unanimously for Swank on Monday and received applause from the audience.
“I think our sole purpose is to be there for our students and our teachers and to continue to move forward,” Swank said. “I believe in the tradition of excellence that this school district has. I’m really looking forward to supporting not only my fellow board members, but students, teachers and support staff as they prepare for the next school year. It’s going to be great.”
Swank joined the board last year. Her message to Blue Springs families before school starts next week:
“Let’s get ready!” Swank said. “It’s going to be a wonderful year.”
The board also addressed the vacant position. Applications for the position will be accepted starting Tuesday, August 13. The application deadline is Friday, August 23. The person selected for the position will have the job until next April.
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