Del Mar school district board bids farewell to Perkins, re-elects Rafner as president

The Dec. 10 Del Mar Union School District (DMUSD) board meeting was the last for trustee Doug Perkins. Perkins, who has served the district for the last six years, is resigning to assume his new position on the San Diego County Office of Education board.

His last official day will be Jan. 5, 2015 and the district will have 60 days to appoint a new board member or call for a special election, according to Superintendent Holly McClurg.

“We are very appreciative of his service, it’s a lot of sacrifice to do what is primarily a volunteer endeavor,” said McClurg. “He truly cares about the district and cares about the children...He always came from a place of doing what’s best for the children.”

Del Mar Heights Principal Wendy Wardlow also attended the meeting to thank Perkins for his service — his three children, Julia, Michelle and Russell, went through the Heights for elementary school.

Wardlow gave him enlarged photos of pieces of the school’s sea serpent mural; words that she said represent Perkins, such as “inspire” and “trust.”

The DMUSD board trustees also had great things to say about their departing board member. Trustee Alan Kholos said he appreciated Perkins’ clarity on issues and his willingness to help him as the newest board member. Several board members remarked on his thorough nature, how he always seemed to ask the important questions.

“You’re like Colombo,” DMUSD Board President Doug Rafner said, comparing him to the television detective. “Whenever we thought we’d finish a topic you’d say ‘Wait, I’ve got one more question.’ I’ll miss that.”

Perkins appeared touched, if not slightly embarrassed by all the attention.

“It really has been a pleasure and I hope that my new board is as easy to work with as this group,” Perkins said. “I know that the district is in great hands.”

At the board’s organizational meeting, they also re-elected Rafner as board president and Kristin Gibson was elected the board clerk.