The search is on for a new Turlock Unified School District Trustee after Grady Welch resigned his seat last week.

The TUSD Board of Trustees unanimously voted to make a provisional appointment who will serve until the November 2015 board election, costing the district less than $500. The board's other option was to hold a special election, which was estimated to cost between $56,000 and $96,250.

Welch was elected in November of 2011 and served two years on the board, leaving 2 ½ years left on his term as trustee.

In his resignation letter, Welch stated, “… there were many extenuating circumstances that prevented me from committing my duties as trustee. It was an honor and privilege to serve for a short while, and I hope that the Turlock school board will continue to do good things for the students of Turlock."

Candidates interested in serving on the Board of Trustees need to submit an information form and a letter of intent to the district office by July 23. Candidate information forms are available in the superintendent's office, 1574 E. Canal Dr., Room 210.

A screening committee of three board members will select candidates for interview. A special board meeting to interview potential candidates is tentatively scheduled for Aug. 6, with appointment possible at the Aug. 20 TUSD Board meeting.

The provisional appointment will not impact the three terms that are up for election this year. Potential candidates for the November election will need to submit their paperwork by Aug. 14 for Trustee Areas 2, 4, and 6. A map of Trustee Areas can be found at http://turlockusd-ca.schoolloop.com/trusteearea