(Stillwater, Oklahoma, November 7, 2023) Long-time Stillwater Board of Education member Camille DeYong has stepped down from the organization, citing personal reasons. The board has sixty days to fill the vacancy.

During a special November 6 board meeting, the board recognized DeYong for her service to the district. A Stillwater High School graduate, DeYong was first appointed to the board in August of 2013, then won elections for the seat in 2016 and 2021. She has served on numerous committees for the board and held the positions of both Vice President and President. DeYong says she’s particularly proud of efforts to help SPS become the first ‘trauma-informed’ school district in the state and helping to bring Dr. Gay Washington out of retirement to serve as interim superintendent in 2022.

“I hope that the teachers and staff of SPS felt my unwavering support throughout the past ten years,” says DeYong. “They are the people on the front line who impact our kids’ lives every day and we can never thank them enough.”

“It has been an honor to serve with the four current board members, as well as the others with whom I served,” she says of her time on the board. “We have accomplished a great deal for the students, faculty, and staff at SPS, and I am confident this board will continue that path. Blessings to each and every one of you.”

The board will accept applications until November 21 for citizens residing in Ward 1 who wish to serve on the board. The board will review applications, interview, and designate an appointee to fill the open seat. Because the position was vacated in the last half of its term, the appointee will serve until an open election in 2026. 

Applications are available at stillwaterschools.com/board. Those with questions about the application process should contact Annette Jones at 405.533.6300.

"I want to thank Camille for her dedication to this district,” said Superintendent Uwe Gordon. “She has put in so many hours in the service of Stillwater’s families over the last 10 years. Her experience and steadfast care for children’s well-being and academic success will be greatly missed.”