MILL HALL — At the end of its final voting session of 2025, Keystone Central School District Board of Directors accepted the resignation of Jeff Johnston, Region IV representative, effective Jan. 1, 2026.

Prior to submitting his resignation, Johnston offered the following statement regarding the reason behind his departure:

“Over the past six years I have served on this board with, what I feel, (is) a lot of commitment and high integrity. And I’m proud of the progress we have made, particularly in the areas of facilities, curriculum, school security and other areas. However, over the past two years the direction and, many times, the conduct of this board have become increasingly concerning to me.

“A persistent lack of trust toward our administrative staff has developed. Reflected and repeated demands for information that has already many times been provided and ongoing pattern of micromanagement.

“This approach undermines effective leadership and is inconsistent with the appropriate role of a good school board member. A board’s primary responsibility is to always act first and foremost in the best interest of students. In my view, and my opinion, that priority has been displaced by an excessive focus on cost cutting at the expense of educational quality and student needs.

“While fiscal responsibility is certainly essential. It must be balanced with a clear commitment to student success. That balance I do not feel has been maintained.

“Given the current trajectory of board leadership, I can no longer serve in good conscience; accordingly I’m submitting my resignation effective Jan. 1, 2026.

“I’m very grateful to the administration and staff with whom I have worked very closely with over the last six years. And I deeply respect their dedication to our students and our community and I wish them all many, many years and continued success.”

Superintendent Dr. Francis Redmon was directed to begin the search for a potential replacement for Johnston’s position — which represents Dunnstable Township, Wayne Township and Pine Creek Township II — by Board President Elisabeth Lynch.

Redmon said the process will begin immediately, with plans to hold interviews of candidates the week of Jan. 5, 2026.