Paul Bixler resigned halfway through her final meeting as a member of the Liberty Elementary School District governing board on Monday, Dec. 16, marking the end of her four-year term.
Bixler, who joined the board in 2020, brought more than three decades of experience in public education. Born in Akron, Ohio, she moved to Phoenix in 1955 and later pursued a career that included service in the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps. After graduating from Arizona State University’s School of Education in 1976, she worked as a teacher, coach, guidance counselor, and administrator.
She described her educational philosophy as emphasizing and providing a free and appropriate education.
“I’m proud to say that I’m a professional public-school educator. I will always be unabashedly proud to declare that I am one of you,” Bixler said.
In her farewell remarks, Bixler reflected on the board’s progress during her term and addressed the personal challenges she faced.
“My simple presence on the governing board is evidence of encouragement and empowerment for the children that are otherwise disenfranchised,” Bixler said.