A resignation has left a vacancy on the Santa Maria Joint Union High School District board.

Amy Lopez, who has served since 2016, submitted her resignation Monday, prompting the board to start the provisional appointment process.

The remaining four members have 60 days from the July 31 resignation to fill the empty seat.

When a member resigns, the school district board can appoint a replacement or order a special election, which can be a costly and time-consuming option. 

“It seems like given the timeline we have it’s sensible to make an appointment,” board member Feliciano Aguilar said.

District spokesman Kenny Klein said information about the application and the interview process will be posted on the website soon.

The open seat is from Trustee Area 3, but applicants can live anywhere in the city since Lopez was re-elected before the district adopted its current redistricting plan. 

Her four-year term expires in December 2024, so the position will appear on the November 2024 ballot along with the seat now held by Jack Garvin.

Lopez was provisionally appointed to the board in January 2016 to fill a seat vacated by Victor Tognazzini, who moved out of state after serving two terms.

Lopez’s move to San Luis Obispo County prompted her to resign. 

“Serving as a school board member has truly been an honor. My departure is bittersweet as I have called Santa Maria my home for my entire life,” said Lopez, a St. Joseph High School gradate. 

“I will continue to serve the community of Santa Maria and all of Santa Barbara County through my role with the Department of Behavioral Wellness. My passion is public service, and my commitment to serve this community will continue.”

Superintendent Antonio Garcia described Lopez as a champion of public education.

“Her devotion to young people, staff and the community has been a tremendous asset,’’ Garcia said.