Gov. Butch Otter has appointed Don Soltman, vice president at Kootenai Medical Center and a former longtime school trustee in the Lakeland School District, to the state Board of Education. Soltman fills the position formerly held by Sue Thilo of Coeur d'Alene. Click below to read Otter's full announcement.

DON SOLTMAN APPOINTED TO BOARD OF EDUCATION

GOVERNOR NAMES NORTHERN IDAHO HOSPITAL OFFICIAL TO PANEL

            (BOISE) – Governor C.L. “Butch” Otter announced the appointment today of  Don Soltman of Twin Lakes, vice president for support services at Kootenai Health – the operator of Kootenai Medical Center in Coeur d’Alene – to the state Board of Education. 

            He succeeds Sue Thilo of Coeur d’Alene, whose term expired March 1.  Soltman’s term runs through March 2014. His appointment is subject to Idaho Senate confirmation.

            “I was impressed with the quality of the people who were willing to consider this job. It’s tough, and often thankless even in the best of times, and I appreciate the great work that Sue has done,” Governor Otter said. “Don’s proven commitment to education and experience at both the local and statewide policy level made him a standout candidate, and a great choice to help the Board of Education fulfill its mission.”

            “I feel privileged to be appointed and hope to serve the people of Idaho as best I can,” said Soltman, who was a member of the Rathdrum-based Lakeland School District for 13 years, including five years as chairman. He did not seek re-election last year.

            In addition, Soltman served four years on the state’s Professional Standards Commission – which advises the Board of Education on standards for teacher certification in Idaho schools – including three years as chairman of its budget committee. He also served on the state committee that developed the graduation standards in science for Idaho students. 

            Soltman, 60, is a Grangeville native with a bachelor’s degree in life sciences from the Air Force Academy and a master’s degree in health care administration from Baylor University in Texas. He served 10 years in the Air Force, working at various health care facilities across the United States, Europe and in Vietnam.

            Soltman’s daughter, Hilary Bradbury, is an attorney practicing in Boise.

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