11-year-veteran on Richland School Board stepping down

Rick Donahoe is stepping down from the Richland School Board after 11 years to move to Michigan.

Donahoe, the former chief executive officer for the Children’s Reading Foundation, was initially appointed to the board to fill an empty spot in 2009. He was then elected to three more terms. The most recent win was over Matthew Bishop in November 2019.

The former engineer at Hanford had a special interest in early childhood education and special education. He supported the district’s move to full-day kindergarten and the establishment of the Early Learning Center.

Donahoe was also part of the task force looking at improving the district’s special education program.

“Education can be one of the most powerful influence in someone’s life, and I am honored that the community allowed me the opportunity to have role in its schools,” he said in an announcement.

The board will appoint someone to fill the seat until an election can be held in fall 2021. The district plans to release details later on how people can apply.

Donahoe said he and his wife are moving to Michigan to be closer to family.