Idaho Gov. Butch Otter has named Linda Clark, superintendent of the state’s largest school district, West Ada, to the state Board of Education to replace three-term board member Rod Lewis of Eagle, whose term expired June 30.  Otter said he selected Clark from “an outstanding field of applicants.”

“Linda Clark embodies the passion and dedication of Idaho’s professional educators,” Otter said in a statement. “She has a wealth of knowledge and experience in education K-through-career, and understands the importance of providing the very best educational opportunities for Idaho citizens. I extend my sincere thanks to Rod Lewis for his 15 years of service to Idaho. His efforts have led to significant improvements in education, and our students and state are stronger today for his hard work and dedication.”

Clark holds a bachelor’s degree from Boise State University, a master’s degree in education from the University of Idaho, and an Ed.D, a doctorate in education, from the University of San Francisco. She recently served for two years on the governor’s Task Force for Improving Education. “Linda’s work and leadership on the task force were invaluable,” Otter said. “I know she shares my commitment to implementing the 20 recommendations to improve education in Idaho as we work to reach the goal of enabling 60 percent of our citizens ages 25-34 to attain a post-secondary degree or certificate by 2020.”

Clark said, “I am humbled and highly honored by Gov. Otter’s appointment.  The state Board of Education has done outstanding work in moving Idaho toward attainment of the task force recommendations, and I look forward to working with them on these and other important issues for K-12 and higher education in Idaho.”

Otter also announced that he is reappointing Ashton business woman and potato grower Emma Atchley to serve a second term on the board; she is the board’s current vice-president and immediate past president. Both Atchley and Clark will serve five-year terms that run through June 30, 2020.