ASBSD award recognizes extraordinary leadership
Marie Gross of Timber Lake has been named Outstanding School Board Member of the Year by the Associated School Boards of South Dakota (ASBSD). The award is presented annually to a school board member who exemplifies extraordinary leadership of public education by implementing initiatives that spur student achievement, advocating for secure funding sources for K-12 education and setting high expectations for their school district and themselves, among other high-quality characteristics.
Gross will be recognized at an ASBSD event later this year. She was initially elected to the Timber Lake School Board in July 2015 and was chosen just last week by her fellow members to serve a second consecutive term as board president.
“I'm surprised and honored to be chosen for this award,” Gross said. “I can't say enough about the Timber Lake school system ... from the board and administration to the teachers, staff, students and parents ... everyone is dedicated to doing everything they can to provide our children the very best education. We're all working together for their future and I'm proud to be a part of that.”
Herself a graduate of Timber Lake High School - Class of 1996 - Gross said the Timber Lake School has been a blessing to her for her entire life. “I got a great education there and now my children are getting a great education there. I'm just so lucky to be a part of this school district and this community.”
Supt. Dan Martin described Gross as a “true proponent for improving the educational opportunities, safety and welfare of all students” in the Timber Lake School District.
“Under her leadership as board president, our district continues to enhance both education and extracurricular activities,” said Martin. “Marie has demonstrated unwavering dedication, high moral character, and a true commitment to the education of our youth. She was instrumental in the building of our sports complex, our Native American Education enhancements, consistently demonstrates leadership qualities and works hard to improve the quality of education our students receive.”
An enrolled member of the Cheyenne River Sioux Tribe, Gross earned a Nursing Degree from the University of South Dakota, a Bachelor's Degree in business from Presentation College, and a Master's Degree in Public Health from the University of South Dakota. She is currently employed as the program coordinator for Missouri Breaks Research Inc. She and her husband, Richard, have four children and own The Limit Lodge & Cabins in Timber Lake.