After 15 and a half years of service on the Central Kitsap School District board of directors, Christopher Stokke announced Feb. 26 that he would be stepping down.

Stokke handed a letter to each member of the board at the end of their twice monthly meeting.

“It is with a heavy heart that I am submitting my resignation from the Central Kitsap School District board of directors,” Stokke said as he read the letter.

“My passion is education which makes this decision especially difficult.

“I have been fortunate to serve on this board for almost fifteen and a half years. Board service has not always been easy but it’s gratifying to participate on a board that works as a leadership team to ensure continuous improvement,” he said.

Stokke said he needed more time to address personal health issues and also to support his parents.

His resignation is effective March 10.

“I’m not happy but I understand,” said board Vice President Jeanie Schulze sadly upon hearing the news.

Board President Bruce Richards said Stokke had been the “backbone” of the board.

“For many years I was the junior person,” Richards said. “I looked up to you and learned an awful lot.”

“The things you’ve done for this district and the students and the staff of this district are uncountable and I appreciate your service,” Richards said.

Richards joked that Stokke should feel free to come any time to a lengthy board meeting and sit in the back and then leave early.

Board member Eric Greene said he would miss seeing Stokke’s colorful ties at meetings.

Superintendent David McVicker said he tried unsuccessfully to change Stokke’s mind.

“I definitely understand his situation and I really respect that,” McVicker said.

McVicker said Stokke led the way in being one of the first board members to take the time to visit the district’s schools and get to know the staff of those schools.

Stokke was first elected in 1999. During his time in office, he helped guide CKSD through several years of difficult budget reductions and also helped establish the district as a frontrunner in providing free, full-day kindergarten.

Stokke’s four-year term ends in November, and the position is up for election this fall. In the meantime, the school board will seek candidates to serve the remainder of the current term. To be legally eligible, a candidate must be a registered voter and a resident of Director Area 3. Geographical descriptions of director areas and other information are available at www.cksd.wednet.edu or by calling the Superintendent’s Office at 360-662-1614.

The board will meet March 3 to talk about filling the vacated spot. Applicants will be interviewed some time in April.