The Coeur d’Alene Public Schools’ Board of Trustees appointed new leadership Monday evening during its regular monthly meeting.
Lesli Bjerke will serve as Chair of the Board, replacing Rebecca Smith whose term ended in 2025. Trustee Bjerke, representing Zone 4, has served on the board since January 2022. She was selected as Vice Chair in January 2024. Bjerke won reelection in November 2025.
“I am honored to serve our school district as Board Chair and I have the utmost respect for everyone on this board,” said Bjerke. “This is a big year for Coeur d’Alene Public Schools and I look forward to continuing the work we have done together to ensure the needs and success of our students and staff remain at the forefront of our efforts.”
Heather Tenbrink, representing Zone 3, will serve as Vice Chair of the Board. Trustee Tenbrink was initially appointed to the board in November 2021 and won her race in November 2023.
“It’s a privilege to serve this community and work with such a thoughtful, committed board and dedicated staff,” said Tenbrink. “I’m proud of the progress we’ve made together and excited to help build on that momentum in the year ahead.”
New trustees Lisa Aitken and Rick Rasmussen were sworn in at Monday’s meeting as they began their first terms on the board.
Trustee Aitken, who ran unopposed, was officially recognized by the board in October 2025, assuming the Zone 5 seat vacated by longtime Trustee Rebecca Smith who did not seek reelection.
Trustee Rasmussen was named Interim Trustee for Zone 1 in July 2025 and won his trustee race in November 2025.
The board re-appointed Tyler Morton, Executive Director of Finance, as board treasurer and affirmed that Marianne Southwick will continue to serve as Clerk of the Board. They also named Korrei Kruger as the Public Records Custodian.