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Tharp appointed MVBT Superintendent

From a student at Birch Tree Elementary School all the way to the superintendent's office, Lanna Tharp has been a lifelong member of the Mountain View-Birch Tree RIII School District. Following the retirement of current superintendent, Dr. Don Christensen, the school board launched a search. They finalized interviews on Nov. 28, says a release from the district. 
Tharp, who has served as Assistant Superintendent since 2021, has worked in the district for "several years," commented school board vice president, Eric Wells.
"Mrs. Tharp impressed the board with her drive for doing what is best for students, and is excited to ensure all students are prepared for their future," school board president Jennifer Foster said in a release. "[She] is passionate about helping the Mountain View Birch Tree School District continue to grow, and is looking forward to working on MVBT becoming one of the top districts in the state."
Tharp, a lifelong member of the R-III district, said she considers it a "true privilege" to serve as superintendent. 
"In 1974, I started my education at Birch Tree Elementary in Ms. Bertha Smotherman's kindergarten class. In 1993, I started my career in the Mountain View-Birch Tree School District. Since that time, I've had the opportunity to work in various teaching and administrative positions throughout the district," Tharp said in a press release.
Looking to the future, Tharp said she values the programs and services already in place in the district and plans to continue to build existing these programs.
"We are guaranteed to face challenges, but we will identify them, conquer them, and move forward towards being the extraordinary district we are destined to be," Tharp said. "It is my intent that our district create a culture of collaboration, combined with open and clear communication among the staff, students, parents, the board of education, and the community. I will always welcome your questions, concerns, or suggestions that lead to preparing our students and staff for success. Together, we can make MVBT the best school on earth!"
Tharp has been married to her husband, Allen Tharp, for 27 years. Since marrying, they have lived in Montier, Birch Tree, and Mountain View. They have two sons, Nicholas and Mason, both Liberty High School graduates. 
 
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