Cambridge School Board Members Resigned
The board has initiated a search for two replacements following the departures of Jim Womble and Annie LaValley.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Secondary Education
Live Poll
Is now a good time for you to consider serving on a local school board?
The Cambridge School Board recently recognized Jim Womble and Annie LaValley for their service following their respective resignations. The board is now accepting applications from residents to fill the two vacant seats.
Why it matters
The resignations require the board to fill vacancies to maintain full operational capacity until the next election. Candidates interested in serving will have the opportunity to learn more about the role during an upcoming session.
The school board consists of seven total members. Applicants must submit a letter of interest and a notarized Declaration of Eligibility by 4 p.m. on October 16, 2026.
The players
Jim Womble
A long-serving school board member who was first appointed to the position in January 2016.
Annie LaValley
A school board member who was initially appointed in April 2024 and subsequently won reelection in April 2025.
Tracy Smithback-Travis
A board representative who presented official commendation certificates to the departing members.
The details
Annie LaValley, who was first appointed in April 2024 and reelected in 2025, resigned on September 6 after moving out of the district. Jim Womble, who had served since his appointment in January 2016, stepped down on September 28 as he prepares to move to McFarland.
Timeline
January 2016: Jim Womble was appointed to the board.
September 6, 2026: Annie LaValley resigned from her seat.
September 28, 2026: Jim Womble ended his tenure on the board.
October 12, 2026: The board will host an informational session for prospective candidates.
October 16, 2026: Deadline for filing application materials by 4 p.m.
Culture Shift
The transition follows established local governance norms for managing school district leadership changes. This process ensures the board continues to operate under the Wisconsin statutory requirements for school board vacancy appointments.
Residents interested in education policy have the opportunity to apply for the open board seats through the district office. Applicants must ensure they meet eligibility requirements and submit all documentation by the October 16 deadline.
The takeaway
The departure of two long-standing members highlights the importance of public participation in maintaining local school district governance. Residents interested in serving their community can engage with the board through the formal application and informational session process.
What happens next
The school board will hold an informational session for potential applicants on October 12, 2026, followed by a selection meeting on October 26, 2026, where new members will be chosen. Selected appointees will officially begin their service at the board meeting on November 23, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about local governance and initiatives on the Secondary Education page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Daily Jefferson County Union.
Live Poll
Is now a good time for you to consider serving on a local school board?
