Wednesday night was emotional for the Renton School District Board of Directors. That’s when Marcie Maxwell presented the board with her resignation.

A board member since 2001, Maxwell was elected State Representative in the 41st District in the Nov. 4 election.

Board members are excited for Maxwell’s new job position, but are also sad to see her go, said Randy Matheson, spokesperson for Renton School District.

“She’s been an incredible advocate for children in the district and families in the district,” he said.

The Board of Directors is now accepting letters of interest from applicants for Maxwell’s vacated position. She served as Director of District No. 5, which encompasses the northern end of the school district.

The board will appoint the new director. That person will serve the remainder of Maxwell’s term, until Dec. 2009. At that time interested candidates will run a campaign to be elected to the seat for the four-year term.

Those interested in filling the position must live in Director District No. 5, be a U.S. citizen and be registered to vote within Renton School District boundaries. Applicants will be asked to provide proof of residency and address.

Applications are due at 5 p.m. on Jan. 9. Interviews will be held the week of Jan. 13 and selection is tentatively scheduled for the week of Jan. 13. The appointment could be made at the Jan. 28 School Board meeting.

To apply for the position, and for more information, including a map of District 5, visit http://www.renton.wednet.edu/.

Applications can be mailed to: Renton School Board Vacancy, 300 SW 7th Street, Renton, WA 98057, or by e-mail to jan.lafountaine@renton.wednet.edu