Former Del Mar school board member steps down from county board due to health reasons

Former Del Mar Union School District trustee Doug Perkins has resigned from his position on the San Diego County Board of Education, following suffering a massive hemorrhagic stroke in February. Perkins’ resignation was effective June 8.

According to the Caring Bridge website maintained by his wife Carolyn, Perkins continues to make progress in his recovery.

“In light of his situation, I made the decision to resign him from the County Board of Education. It was a sad moment for me as I recalled his campaign, the wonderful support he received and for the miraculous win,” wrote Carolyn on the website. “I will always remember being downtown on election night, watching the results and being in disbelief that he was ahead!”

Perkins served on the Del Mar Union School District board for seven years prior to being elected to the county board.

“Doug was elected to the board because of his commitment to the education of students,” said County Superintendent of Schools Dr. Randolph E. Ward in a press release. “Now is the time for him to concentrate on his health and well-being.”

At its meeting on June 10, the County Board of Education established a timeline and procedures for filling the District 5 board seat vacated by Perkins. The appointee will hold office until January 2017. A successor will be elected in 2016 to complete the term ending January 2019.

To apply for the appointment or to download an application for the vacancy, individuals can visit www.sdcoe.net/Board/Pages/board-vacancies.aspx, or request an application by calling (858) 292-3515 or email kbowers@sdcoe.net. Applications must be submitted no later than Wednesday, July 1, at noon.

The board is expected to interview all eligible candidates, make the appointment, and swear in the new board member at its regular meeting on July 8.