NORFOLK, Neb. -- The resignation of a Norfolk Public Schools board of education member was approved Monday.

Lindsay Dixon, who submitted a letter of resignation earlier this month, had her request approved in a 3-1 vote, by her now-former board of education members.

Norfolk Public Schools superintendent Jami Jo Thompson thanked Dixon for her efforts on the board and thanked her for her time and dedication.

"As you know being a school board member takes a lot of time and dedication," Thompson said. "I appreciate all of her willingness to serve in this capacity. What you do does make a difference for thousands of children and families each year."

Board member Cindy Booth also thanked Dixon for her time on the board but also used the opportunity to speak out against an article published by the Norfolk Daily News.

Booth claimed the article, which discussed Dixon's absence at multiple meetings, portrayed Dixon and the board in a negative light, stating that most of the 18 absences the article discussed had been approved by the board.

"The information published by our local newspaper in my opinion has negatively affected our entire board and was a target at Ms. Dixon," Booth said. "Absences are bound to occur when you have volunteer board members who have full-time jobs and other obligations. I believe she was clearly being targeted due to her various votes, outspoken comments and conservative opinions." 

Booth was the lone opposition vote for Dixon's resignation.

The board of education has now begun searching for Dixon's replacement with applications now open until Wednesday, May 8. 

After applications close, the board will appoint the new member on May 13, with their selection serving until January 2027.