Thomas won't run to keep his seat
By Phyllis Moore
Published in News on February 9, 2010 1:46 PM
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Dave Thomas
School board member Dave Thomas announced Monday he will not seek re-election when his term is up this November.
Thomas, who represents District 1, which covers the northern end schools including Rosewood and Charles B. Aycock, came on the board in 2006.
The filing period began Monday and runs through Feb. 26.
Thomas said his age played a large factor in his decision not to run again.
"I will be 73 by this November when the election comes, so if I run that would be a four-year term again. If I was elected, I would be 77 my last year," he said. "I just think that at that age a younger candidate might be more valuable."
He said he also wanted to make public his plans to allow someone else the opportunity to consider candidacy.
"I want to let people know, especially ones that maybe want to run for the northern end, to give them time to think about it and file and run for it," he said.
The former teacher, coach and administrator had retired in 2003 after 42 years in education.
He said he has enjoyed his years affiliated with Wayne County Public Schools and on the Board of Education.
"We have really cooperated. Thank you for your support," he said of the board and central office staff.
"It's been a pleasure serving with you, Mr. Thomas," Board Chairman Rick Pridgen said. "I look forward to the rest of the year."
Pridgen is also up for re-election this year, representing District 6, along with John Grantham, District 4, and George Moye, District 5. None have officially announced plans to run again.