Groce takes seat on school board

By Jonathan Willis
FCT Staff Writer

The Russellville city schools system celebrated its 75th anniversary on Oct. 8 during homecoming festivities.

During that celebration, it became evident that the success of the system has been due to strong leadership and the ability to change with the times. That is exactly what the system has done since 1983 with Mollie Hamilton sitting on the board of education.

Now the system will have a new face as Hamilton’s time on the board came to a close recently. Her vacated seat was filled by former city council member Jerry Groce.

His sentiments were echoed throughout the meeting.

Hamilton said that after 21 years of service to the school system, it is just time to step aside.

Hamilton’s departure opened the space that will now be filled by Groce, who chose not to seek a fifth term to the city council. His appointment should allow the board to continue to move on productively, board members said.

Board member Steve Defoor told Groce that this appointment will be one of the most fulfilling things he will ever do.