For former Eagle Grove Board of Education director Erin Halverson, it has been an enjoyable term of just over 10 years that came to an end on March 31st. Erin and husband Terry have moved to an acreage near Alexander to be closer to their two sons. This mandated that she give up her seat, but they fully intend to come back to visit and still support the Eagle teams. She will still continue her position as nurse for C-G-D high school. “We are not that far away, however moving out of the district meant I must hand over the reigns to someone else,” said Halverson.
She joined the Board in 2009 after being approached by Charlie Bray when he moved due to an employment. “I was appointed to serve the duration of his term, and have eagerly ran for reelection ever since,” said Halverson. “To be honest, I was honored to be asked to serve our school district. I was raised here, and am continually proud of the ability to volunteer time and efforts to our school and community.”
She admits that it was not at all what she expected, but also honestly didn’t know what to expect. “It has been so unbelievably fulfilling to serve in this role, and so without a doubt it’s been better than I could have ever imagined,” she stated. When asked about what stands out as accomplishments during her time, her first response was “Where do I start?” She does know that following in her dad’s footsteps (past Board member) meant a lot to both her and him. “Without a doubt, in his passing in 2017, it means even more to have shared a legacy,” said Halverson. “The honor of also being on stage at Commencement each of these years was powerful, but never as much as the two years I was able to hand a diploma, and share a hug, with both of our boys. Those are certainly memories I will cherish for my lifetime.”
She is also proud to have worked alongside Board members that often had similar viewpoints, while also not being afraid to share different perspectives without ever showing disrespect among members. “Working with Superintendent Jess Toliver has been very enriching and educational, and has made my time on the Board memorable,” said Halverson. “He is a leader in so many professional and personal ways. For example, I heard him tell countless times ‘disagree with me.’ I learned this statement to mean he wanted to be challenged, to see and think from another viewpoint or simply to know he was on the right path. For his openness, fairness, compassion, firmness and professionalism, I was very lucky to have served as a part of his lead.”
Halverson stated she always enjoyed meeting people at either sporting events, community activities or at her home that wanted to talk to her about the school district. “I have enjoyed being able to stand up for what I believed in and never taking the easy path just because it was more simple,” she said. When asked if she has any advice for someone considering seeking her seat or running for school board in the future, it would be to take advantage of any opportunity to serve your school, kids and community. “It is hard to put into words the sense of pride that has come with the seat,” she said. “Do not hesitate to step up. It is my promise that you will not regret it. This should not be a position for you to take lightly, and certainly not one to get your personal agenda passed or serve as a personal soapbox of issues. If you want to better your school, have a voice and be ready to listen to other Board member’s opinions, I would not hesitate to tell anyone to voice your interest either for my seat or in the future.”
She also wishes to thank her family for being patient when she had commitments and for their support during these years. “Thank you to them, and all of you, for allowing me to serve,” said Halverson. “And now, to my former fellow board members for the final time, I simply say ‘motion to adjourn.’”
“Erin’s love and dedication for the Eagle Grove School District is very much appreciated,” said Toliver. “Not only was she an active board member, but also an active parent and community member.”
(Note-The Notice of Intent to appoint a person to the vacated seat on the board has been duly published. Eligible electors in the district have the right to file a petition calling for a special election to fill the vacancy. Petitions must be in the hands of board secretary Teresa Sadler within 14 days of the publication, which would make the deadline April 23rd. For details and signatory requirements, or to be considered for the appointment, see Sadler at the district office or call 515-448-4749).
