The Exeter School Board on Monday selected a community advocate to fill a seat that has been vacant since last month.
Following interviews with 10 candidates during a special meeting, Anne-Marie Grill was appointed to serve on the board following the resignation of Allison Wilson in February.
Jennifer Breton, director of public relations for the district, said Grill brings decades of experience in youth development, education and community leadership.
The Exeter Township resident holds a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education from Towson State University and has spent much of her career working with children, families and volunteers in leadership roles.
Grill said she is honored to serve the district and is eager to work collaboratively with fellow board members, administrators and the community to support students.
In her current role as elementary director of Glad Tidings Kids Ministry in West Lawn, Grill oversees programming for students in kindergarten through third grade and leads outreach initiatives designed to strengthen community engagement.
She also previously served as executive assistant to Berks County Commissioner Christian Leinbach, where she gained experience in government operations, event planning and administrative leadership.
Breton said Grill’s connection to the district is personal. Along with her husband, she has raised five children who have been part of the Exeter School District.
School board President Julia Shaffer said the board was impressed with the depth of experience among the candidates and the commitment each demonstrated to the district.
“We had a very strong group of applicants, and we appreciate everyone who stepped forward to serve our community,” Shaffer said in a release announcing the appointment. “Anne-Marie brings a deep passion for supporting children and families along with extensive experience working with youth, volunteers and community organizations.
“We are excited to welcome her to the board and look forward to the perspective she will bring.”