School Board member recognized for nearly two decades of service

PALMER — At a joint meeting of the Mat-Su Borough Assembly and Mat-Su Borough School District School Board, Dr. Sarah Welton was honored for her 18 years of service on the School Board and her lifetime of dedication to education in the Valley.

“This is a wonderful person folks,” said Borough Mayor Vern Halter. “The example that Sarah has set for all of us is of an individual who goes above and beyond to help others, not only the students in the school district but also the students during her time as an adjunct professor at the University of Alaska as well as helping Mat-Su residents in her private counseling practice. In Sarah’s words, ‘let us develop human beings who have skills and resiliency to get through the tough times and are seeking a quality of life that reflects the value of life.’”

Halter read a Mayoral proclamation honoring Welton, who began her over 30-year career in public service as a member of the Fairview Community Council in the 1980’s. Welton received a standing ovation from a packed School Board chambers on Tuesday and was presented flowers along with her proclamation.

During public comment, teachers from the MSBSD recalled their fond memories of Welton’s work in schools over the years. Mat-Su Education Association President Dianne Shibe said that she could tell Welton had always done her homework prior to school board meetings.

“Our members were moved over the years as we watched you continuing to serve the Valley through your own personal challenges because you understood the profound importance of your position on the school board. Personally I have been amazed at your work ethic, in particular your tenacity in seeing that the board policy document is examined and amended periodically. It seemed you were always the one reminding the board that the schedule to tackle the task was again at hand,” said Shibe. “You were determined to continue being a positive force for education in this Valley and our members appreciate you for that. The legacy of the work that you have accomplished over the years and the culture of intellect and integrity that you strove to establish for the board will continue to positively benefit our community and our members for years after you have stepped down from the board.”

Palmer Junior Middle School teacher Linda Jo Klapperich said that Welton was the only School Board member who visited her classroom in 27 years of education in the Valley.

“I want to thank you, Sarah Welton for being an amazing individual. You are a shining light and always have been and will continue to be,” said Klapperich. “You truly have impacted thousands and thousands of individuals, children, parents, families in a very positive way. Angelina and I want to thank you for your amazing dedication thank you for making a huge impact in our lives and your legacy of positiveness, Sarah, and integrity will live on forever.”

Welton received a Bachelor’s degree in psychology, a Masters degree in counseling psychology and a Ph.D in organizational psychology and also serves as an ordained minister in Palmer. Welton was board clerk for seven years, Vice President for three years and President of the School Board for two years and serves on the board of two nonprofits organizations.

“I just want to thank everybody for all the support over the years and we don’t have to be on the same sides of issues to know that we’re here for the kids. We’re here for the students, we’re here for the children and the families, and we may not always agree but we can work to make this a healthy community and I thank you all for being here tonight,” said Welton. “I want you to all become involved in your community and please attend more meetings and be a part of the things that are happening here because this is a great place to live.”