Venessa Matros
She made a real difference.
In every meeting, every action, every carefully thought-out word.
Venessa Matros, a Coupeville High School alumni who came back around to serve eight years on the school board, cares deeply about her community.
That has always shone through brightly, never more so than Monday, as she chaired her final meeting.
The election is certified Tuesday, and Nancy Conard and Morgan White will join the board, replacing Matros and Kathleen Anderson, who both opted not to run for re-election.
That meant Monday’s virtual meeting was the final one for the former Wolf student turned school leader, and she went out in style.
Matros made an eloquent defense for students being allowed freedom to leave campus at lunchtime.
She also battled through emotion as she described what her town, her school district, and her service to both, has meant for her.
It has always been personal for Matros, as she has worked tirelessly for her own daughters, and for the children of other Coupeville parents.
Our school district is better off for her efforts, for her dedication and unflagging spirit, and her commitment.
That came through in farewell comments from fellow board members Sherry Phay, Christine Sears, and Glenda Merwine, as well as Superintendent Steve King.
While Covid has sent board meetings online, preventing Matros from getting the full, public farewell she deserves, I hope she exits knowing how much her community appreciates her.
Thank you, Venessa, for all you gave, from all of us.
You made a difference. You made us proud.
Coupeville Sports 