Kay McDonough has resigned from the Utah State Board of Education after moving out of District 9 boundaries.
McDonough's resignation was announced last week by the state school board, meeting at Southern Utah University. She had planned not to seek re-election in November.Gov. Mike Leavitt will name a replacement to serve the rest of McDonough's term.
"There were a few triumphs," McDonough said of her tenure on the board, citing the equity statement approved this year, nationally recognized school-to-careers program and bilingual education.
"But I did feel it was hard and will continue to be hard to represent that (district)."
McDonough was lauded by college officials as a strong voice for the low-income families she represents on the west side of Salt Lake County.
A single mother, McDonough has lived in Magna but found an opportunity to buy a home just outside her district in West Valley City.
"She's always been a wonderful voice for that community. She had a great perspective, and we will miss her," said board chairwoman Katharine Garff.