The Allen Parish School Board will soon have an open seat to fill after District 7 board member Kevin Tyler recently announced plans to resign.

Tyler, who has served on the board five-and-a-half years, is stepping down from his position before his term expires. The term is set to expire in December 2026.

During a board meeting Monday, Tyler said he is resigning due to responsibilities of his full-time job. He is vice president of operations at Datrex in Kinder.

“It has been bittersweet,” Tyler said. “I hate doing this. I didn’t want to disappoint people but sometimes things change and for me work and responsibilities changed so it has kind of interfered with things I could do here.”

Tyler said he has been mulling over the decision for more than 18 months, but can no longer give his constituents. community and schools the due diligence they deserve and the position requires.

He said it has been an honor and privilege serving the people of District 7 and he feels the district will continue to be in great hands when he resigns..

Tyler led the board for three years as president.

Superintendent Brad Soileau acknowledged Tyler for his service.

“I think if there was ever a person that sat there as president and showed how to do it, it was you,” Soileau said. “I was always impressed by your ability to lead meetings. Even though I’m saddened by this I understand.”

Soileau said Tyler will submit a letter of resignation to the Secretary of State’s Office in Baton Rouge who will notify the school board of the vacancy.

The board will then have 20 days to appoint an interim board member to the District 7 seat and call a special election. The election will likely be set for March 29, 2025 with qualifying opened Jan. 29-31.