Long-Tenured Pflugerville School Board Member Resigns

PFLUGERVILLE, TX -- One of the longest-serving member of the Pflugerville ISD school board resigned from her post Thursday night, according to a published report.

Cynthia Graves, a dentist who first became a school board member in 2006, stepped down to focus more time on her business ventures, the Austin American-Statesman reported. Her unexpired term would have concluded in 2018.

“It was hard,” Graves was quoted in the newspaper as saying about having to come to the decision to step down. “I’ve been struggling with this for a while.”

Board President Vernagene Mott lauded Graves’ contributions to the board, particularly a business acumen that informed her role and benefited others on the dais.

“We appreciate your tenure, and for serving as a leader and an officer,” the Statesman quoted Mott as telling Graves at Thursday's school board meeting.

The board has up to 180 days to a replacement to fill the unexpired term.

In her official bio on the school board's website, Graves moved to Pflugerville in 2004 after having graduated from Round Rock High School and the University of Texas at Austin.

"As a homeowner, a parent of Pflugerville ISD students, and a business professional with a growing dental practice, Dr. Graves has a threefold interest in the success of the district," her bio reads. "Dr. Graves believes her role as school board member allows her to be a voice for the citizens of Pflugerville, as well as an advocate for children and teachers.

She expressed the fulfillment she derived from her role as a school board member.

“My service on the board has given me an opportunity to meet and work with many outstanding individuals throughout the district---parents, students, concerned citizens and the amazing folks who work for PISD,” Graves wrote.“I am deeply touched by the dedication and kindness displayed by teachers and staff for their students. It is a privilege to be a part of the process that touches the lives of children in such a profound way, and it is a pleasure to serve in this role.”

Read the full story at Austin American-Statesman >>

>>> Photo via Pflugerville school board website