The Hempfield Area School Board has a new president.
Director Paul Ward took the helm on Wednesday after former President Tony Bompiani served in the leadership role for three years.
Directors unanimously approved Ward, who was the sole nominee.
Director Scott Learn will continue to serve as vice president.
Ward thanked the directors for their support at the meeting. He singled out Bompiani in his comments.
“Thank you Dr. Bompiani for three years on the board, three volatile years with covid and a lot going on,” Ward said. “It’s important to acknowledge you helped guide us through some difficult times.”
Ward was first elected to the board in 2015. The Kennametal attorney is married with three children.
His tenure as president begins as the district continues to work through a contentious book policy and will decide in February whether it should permanently close Harrold Middle School, despite disapproval from many parents.
