The Whitefish School District Board Monday voted to renew high school Principal Dave Carlson’s contract.

The board listened to an hour and a half of public comment before making the decision during a special meeting at the middle school. Many of the comments came from the roughly 100 students who attended the meeting and lined the room holding signs that said “Save Mr. Carlson.”

Several spoke about Carlson’s willingness to take time from his day to connect with them.

“I think the best thing about Mr. Carlson is his dedication to students,” student body president Joseph Perry said.

Superintendent Kate Orozco began the meeting by recommending that the school board not renew Carlson’s contract. After the public comment, Orozco changed her recommendation.

“Your support of Mr. Carlson speaks volumes,” Orozco told the students. She said that support could not be ignored.

Carlson, who has served as principal since 2009, said when he was hired he was given several tasks and believes he has achieved what has been asked of him.

“I’m proud of the accomplishments of Whitefish High School over the past three years,” he said. “But there is much more to do and I would like to be the one doing it.”