The chairperson and vice chairperson of the Austin School Board have been elected to serve a second year in their roles, the only two positions that will remain with the same officers in 2009.

Don Fox, who was elected to the board in 2007 with the biggest number of votes ever tallied in an Austin School Board election, was re-elected to lead the council 4-3 during their first meeting of the year Monday.

Long-time board member Dick Lees was selected for a second year as vice chairperson.

Diana Wangsness, a board member since 2007, nominated Fox for the position, calling him “steadfast” and a “cheerleader for others.”

Another long-time board member, Dave Simonson, nominated Kathy Green for chairperson, citing her experience.

“Kathy’s been on the board for over nine years,” Simonson said.

Green also tried to sell herself for the position, explaining how the board is looking toward “improved practices.”

“I truly believe I am the person that would best be able to work with the board,” she said, telling Fox, “You still need a lot of help.”

Lees also vouched for Fox as chairperson, praising him for his continuation of success at Austin Public Schools, including a timely hire of the superintendent, diversity inclusion, preparation for the referendum vote next fall and fellowship program.

“Fox has had a hand in all of these areas,” Lees said.

Under Fox and interim superintendent Bruce Anderson’s leadership, he said, “We have come a long way.”

Board members Lees, Fox, Wangsness and Curt Rude voted to keep Fox as chairperson; Simonson, Green and Mary Kleis voted for Green.

“I will count on you heavily,” Fox said to Green upon re-election.

“I know you have,” Green shot back.

Fox said after the meeting that he understands the board still needs to mend the year-long rift among its members.

“I think we have some room for that,” he said, adding, “We’re making the right decisions.”

Wangsness said she believes Fox is “building to people’s strengths,” and “reaching across the aisle.”

For vice chairperson, Rude nominated Lees for re-election.

“Actions speak louder than words,” he said, citing Lees’ four terms on the board. There were no other nominations and Lees was re-elected unanimously.

Fox nominated Simonson for treasurer; he was elected unanimously with no other nominations. Wangsness served as treasurer in 2008.

Green nominated Kleis for clerk, a position held by Rude last year. Kleis was also elected unanimously with no other nominations.