MOSES LAKE - The Moses Lake School Board named REC Silicon spokeswoman Sharon Palmerton as their newest member during a special meeting earlier this week.

She will serve the remainder of outgoing board member Allan Burritt's term, which expires in 2015. Palmerton was one of three people interested in the position. The other applicants were John McKean, a Moses Lake business owner, and health care product distributor Victoria Lugo.

The board conducted interviews with each person Tuesday, before making their decision.

Palmerton currently serves as community relations manager for REC Silicon and volunteer public information officer for the Grant County Sheriff's Office.

She told board members she applied for the position because she was passionate about helping students. She first got involved with the district when her kids were attending Moses Lake schools.

Palmerton said she wants to continue to help students in the area, and becoming a board member would be the best way to do that.

"My heart has been with students in this area," she said. "If I have the opportunity to help, why shouldn't I?"

Palmerton said she wanted to help the board address the current overcrowding issue, which she considers to be one of the biggest issues facing the district.