Polk County Schools celebrated the career of Jim Patterson, as the veteran educator attended his final meeting of the Polk County Board of Education.

After a distinguished career in education, including time spent with Polk County Schools, Patterson joined the Polk County Board of Education in 2014, representing Tryon Township. He decided not to seek re-election this year, with the November board meeting marking his final session.

Michael Ashworth ran unopposed for Patterson’s seat and will be sworn in at the board’s December meeting to begin his term.

Prior to the board’s November meeting, colleagues and friends from throughout the county gathered at Stearns Education Center to salute Patterson. During the meeting, Polk County Schools Superintendent Aaron Greene and board chairman Geoffrey M. Tennant each spoke about Patterson before presenting him with a plaque in honor of his board service.

“I have known and worked with Jim Patterson for almost two decades, far too long for anyone to have to put up with me,” Greene said. “I can tell you that Jim has been a significant part of my life since my time as a high school principal. A great mentor and friend, Jim helped me navigate many tricky situations and provided support, clarity, objectivity and reason when I needed them most. I feel very fortunate to have known and worked with Jim Patterson for so many years.”

-Submitted by PolkStudents.com