The Chehalis School District Board of Directors, alongside Superintendent Rick Goble and other administrators, honored two retiring board members to begin its meeting on Tuesday, Nov. 18.
During the commemorative speeches, a common theme arose: When making decisions, Colleen State and Larry Petersen put students first.
State, who served as a board director starting in 2011, is a retired educator with decades of teaching experience at Onalaska and Centralia high schools.
Goble presented State with a bouquet of flowers and thanked her for her many years of service, not only as a board director but as a strong community member and supporter of programs.
“I really appreciated the point of view and the perspectives you've brought to the board, and I've seen that through all of my years, not just as superintendent but as an assistant principal, speaking from a teacher perspective,” Goble said. “That's a really important perspective to have on the board, and I just want to say that I really appreciate you.”
State said she’s gotten as much as she’s given during her time as a board member, before thanking numerous administrators, board members, staff and others.
“Now, I would like to say that I have loved almost every minute,” State said, drawing laughs. “There have been some interesting and challenging (times) but I have to say, as a board, as a district, we do what's best for kids, and that's the bottom line.”
Goble presented Petersen, who is finishing his second stint as a board member, with a wrapped gift, and offered praise and thanks.
In June 2024, Petersen, a retired insurance broker, was appointed to the board after Alan Browning resigned. Petersen previously served for four years after his election in 2019.
“We really appreciate your experience that you've brought to this board, your knowledge and thoughtfulness, and again, coming back in the middle of a term and filling in, not many people would do that,” Goble said. “And it’s been a blessing to have you on our board to serve the way you have and to really be a voice in the community.”
Petersen thanked staff, teachers, the board, even janitors. He said he was really glad he came back to serve on the board, despite acknowledging the budget situation facing the district.
“We still have a budget problem, but we’re addressing it and getting it through,” Petersen said. “And like Colleen said, it’s all for the students.”
The other board members then thanked their departing members.
School Board President J. Vander Stoep said Petersen’s work on the budget has been invaluable to the district.
Vander Stoep added that he and State, despite seeing issues differently, ended up agreeing at least 95% of the time and often came to a better outcome — to the benefit of the district.
According to Vander Stoep, State’s only interest was helping the district and its students.
Board Director Kelsi Hamilton said Petersen came back at a critical time and jumped right in. She added that she’s learned so much from State.
Board Director Tim LeDuc called it “an honor and privilege” to work with both State and Petersen over the last few years.
State and Petersen’s positions will soon be filled by Katrina Meier and Lance Tornow, who both ran unopposed in the 2025 general election.
