One of the three candidates vying for two seats on the RSU 71 school board withdrew her candidacy on Monday.
Rachel Philbrook, a Belfast resident for 25 years and mother of two school-aged children, exited the race for “unforeseen personal reasons,” she told the Bangor Daily News. She has 14 years of experience working in a pediatric office and has volunteered with Hospice of Waldo County.
Philbrook notified Belfast City Hall of her withdrawal. Philbrook’s name will still appear on the ballot for now, as early voting began Monday.
With her departure, the remaining candidates for the three-year board terms are incumbent Martha Proulx of Belfast and newcomer candidate Alva Philbrook, also of Belfast, who is Rachel Philbrook’s former brother-in-law.
The RSU 71 school board oversees the district’s public schools, making key decisions about budgets, staffing, curriculum, facilities and more.
The board is currently searching for a new superintendent to take office next spring.
