GATESVILLE – “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed serving our students, staff and administrators; it’s time to let the young folks lead us forward.”

With that, Doug Lilley ended his tenure as a member of the Gates County Board of Education. The majority of his nine years on the board were spent as Chairman.

“I feel we’ve been able to move our school system forward, especially with the new buildings and improvements to other facilities over the past nine years,” Lilley said. “But what I’m most proud of is that our students continue to receive a quality education that is preparing them to take their next step in life, whether that is to continue their education at the collegiate level, or seek a career in the military, or opt to immediately enter the workforce.”

Lilley announced earlier this year that he would not seek reelection.

At the Nov. 4 Board of Education meeting, Lilley was given special recognition as he ends his term on the Gates County Board of Education, representing the Gatesville district. As presented by his fellow School Board members, the inscription on the plaque reads as follows:

“Presented to G. Douglas Lilley for 9 years of Service. In admiration for your leadership in helping students achieve their goals through your high expectations, regardless of socio-economic status, and your belief the job of the school system is to assist all students to become successful. In appreciation of your dedication, enthusiasm, cooperation and hard work which exemplifies a board’s role in supporting and sustaining initiatives aimed at improved achievement. We thank you for your attitude, initiative and performance that reflects the spirit of the school district to encourage efforts to upgrade teaching/administrative skills and create a supportive workplace.”

Lilley’s hard work and dedication was praised by current Gates County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Barry Williams.

“Three years ago, Mr. Lilley asked me to come to the district to be the superintendent of schools for Gates County,” said Williams. “After three years, I have developed a relationship with him as a supervisor, colleague, and a relationship that I’ve never had – one as a brother. Mr. Lilley has taught me many cultural aspects of Gates County and I find that I’m honored and privileged to serve as the superintendent of Gates County Public Schools.”

Lilley promised to be a “phone call away” should the school system need his assistance.

“I may be retiring from the Board of Education, but I’ll never retire when it comes to supporting our outstanding school district,” Lilley stressed.