With a 5-1 vote, the Oxford Schools Board of Education has appointed Carol Mitchell-Bliemeister, 48, to fill the one-year vacancy left by Ron Etherton, who resigned on June 25.
“I was surprised I got it because this was my third time trying,” said Bliemeister.
The new trustee has lived in the Oxford school district for the past 15 years. She currently resides in the Dryden area with her husband Mark. The couple has three children and two grandchildren in the district.
When asked why she wanted the position, Bliemeister said that she wanted to be a part of the one thing that affects every aspect of her life.
“I have children in this district and I work here,” she explained in her interview. “I’m a realtor, so I have to sell this district so I want it to be the best it can be.”
Bliemeister, who also owns a flower shop in Lake Orion, later added that she really enjoys working with children.
“I truly, truly love the children – my life is the children,” she said. “I believe working on the board would allow me to contribute my best to the kids.”
In the district, Bliemeister has helped with the Kiwanis K Kids and Builders Club programs. She has been an active volunteer at Leonard Elementary, as well as a staunch supporter of the high school athletic programs. She was also a member of the district’s building committee.
“I’m more excited than nervous about my new position,” she said. “What I’m looking forward to most are all the different changes happening in the district.”
Unlike the other two candidates for the position, Bliemeister did not run for a seat in the June elections.
“I didn’t run because when I saw who put their names in the hat I saw a couple of people who were very qualified and very good,” she explained. “I knew they would do a good job.”
In fact, she had considered not running for the appointment, but a few phone calls changed her mind.
“Several people called up asking me to apply,” said Bliemeister, “so I decided to try one more time.”
As a new board member, Bliemeister said she will listen to all the viewpoints available, but ultimately her decision will be based on what is best for the children in the district.
“Everyone can rest assured that I will have all the children’s best interest in mind.”
The other candidates for the one-year vacancy were Jamie Fleming and Rob Guzanek. Fleming was appointed earlier this year to fill a vacancy left by Steve Drakos. Both candidates tried for seats in the June elections.