ROCKINGHAM COUNTY, VA (Rocktown Now) – Monday night’s Rockingham County School Board meeting marked the final one for board member Matt Cross, who lost his re-election bid last month.

While he did not attend the meeting, School Superintendent Dr. Larry Shifflett thanked Cross for his unwavering commitment to the safety and well-being of students and staff.

“His passion for school safety was evident in every discussion and decision. His advocacy has helped strengthen our schools and our community,” Shifflett said. “Under his services on the school board, we added additional School Resource Officers, hired a Director of School Safety, and installed security cameras on school premises.”

Cross served for four years on the school board, including one year as chair.

Next month, Hilary Irons will occupy that seat on the school board after winning the November 4th election.