Parents, business owners and others have been heard by the South Whidbey School Board.

Community members have criticized the South Whidbey School District for not utilizing its local thinkers and talent. Involving various stakeholders in the future of South Whidbey schools will be the duty of a long-range planning committee.

This group will develop a plan of action based upon students’ educational needs. So far, the 24-person committee will meet three days in March: from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, March 2; 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, March 18; and 6 to 9 p.m. Monday, March 25.

To join the committee, a nomination form must be submitted to Sue Terhar by Monday, Feb. 11.

The form can be found on the district’s website, and may be emailed to sterhar@sw.wednet.edu or mailed to SWSD, 5520 Maxwelton Road, Langley, WA 98260.