Libby Public School Board trustees rounded out their ranks earlier this week, appointing a new member to fill a final vacancy on their panel.

Ericka Hartley, a local business owner and parent with children in Libby schools, received the board’s approval during an Aug. 23 meeting. Hartley and Ken Foss, a long time Libby educator, were the only applicants for the post.

During an interview with board members before deliberations, Hartley said passion drove her to apply for the school board position.

“I’m passionate about being involved in the community in as many different ways as I possibly can,” she said.

While living in Gresham, Ore., Hartley served on parent teacher committees, helped with fundraising efforts and volunteered in classrooms. As the owner of Pure North Athletic Club in Libby, she regularly interacts with community members. Although she said discussing an issue with a fellow resident might not lead her to change her mind, she would report back to the board with any information she gathered.

“Hopefully, [community members] know that I am available for them to come talk to me and interact with me,” Hartley said.

In her experience as a parent, Hartley said she recognized that teachers at Libby schools genuinely cared about their students. She noted that the district could improve communication between staff, parents and children about resources available to students within the district. She anticipated that the greatest challenge for the district would be dealing with the coronavirus pandemic and its ongoing effects.

Foss, who taught at Libby middle school before going into administration, said he wanted to become a board member so that he could keep giving back to the district.

“I don’t think the parents realize how lucky they are to send their kids to Libby schools. I really think it's a great place to raise kids,” he said.

Three seats on the school board opened up this year after Ellen Johnston, Jeff Stevenson and George Woodruff stepped down. Newcomers Rob Delmas and Kristan Martin filled the two other vacancies.