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In a unanimous vote by the Charlotte County Public School (CCPS) Board, Carmalita Escoto was named the newest board member.

Escoto’s appointment fills the vacancy left by Angela Cook, who resigned effective Sept. 25.

The vote to appoint Escoto was taken in an open session after the closed session.

Escoto is a former graduate of CCPS, a parent of two graduates, and currently has a young child attending CCPS.

The new member said having worked with different public schools systems over the years, she desired to represent her community and be a part of a team that will provide the best education for all students and their families.

“My goal is to join a team of leaders who will establish an ongoing vision and goals for our schools, serve as a leader who will represent my community, and advocate for the students and the district,” Escoto said. “Compared to surrounding schools, CCPS is a leader in academics, and I would like to maintain high standards, and where needed, improve its standards to ensure our students are prepared to compete in a global society.”

Escoto said she believes the school board and community have a responsibility to educate the next generation and hopes to build and maintain community optimism and confidence.

“With this confidence, our principals, teachers, parents and community will increase our student’s confidence and performance,” she said.

“Carmalita Escoto will be an added asset to the Charlotte County School Board,” Chairperson Gloria Talbott said. “Her background in counseling will bring a new viewpoint to the many important decisions to be made in the future by the board, and her willingness to be a team player is key to our success.”

Talbott made the announcement during the school board’s September meeting that Cook was resigning. Cook was first elected to the school board representing the Court House district in November 2019. She ran unopposed.

In an emotional address to the board and those in attendance that night, Cook said being in ministry and being a member on the school board has conflicts at times noting there was a move in her near future and that she would not be able to continue on the board.

Three individuals applied for Cook’s position, and interviews were conducted in closed sessions at the October School Board meeting.