JT Langley, a member of the Huntsville Independent School District Board of Trustees, told the board at its meeting that he will not seek another term. "I will not be seeking to be on the board," Langley said as trustees met.

Why it matters: Langley described decades of involvement in the district and credited the board and staff with recent facilities and improvements that he said had been years in the making. His decision creates an open seat on the board ahead of the next election cycle.

Langley said the Langley family has served on the board for decades. "27 years, 3 more with family," he said, and later added, "The Langley's have been on the board for 30 years." He told the board he will remain involved in district affairs and will continue to press state officials on the district's behalf. "If you ever need me, all you gotta do is call me," Langley said. "I'm still gonna work for this district."

Other trustees and Superintendent Dr. Shepherd responded with public thanks and praise. A fellow trustee said Langley had been a mentor and a steady presence and that the board would "recognize you in the right way at the right time." Dr. Shepherd, Huntsville ISD superintendent, also thanked Langley for his longevity and for being on the board that hired Shepherd, saying, "you stuck through good times and bad times." Dr. Shepherd added that the district will recognize Langley in a future event.

Discussion vs. action: Langley's announcement was a personal statement to the board and did not trigger any immediate board action or personnel decisions during the meeting. Trustees did not vote on any item related to Langley's seat at this meeting.

Context and next steps: Board members noted they will need to prepare for the open seat and expect community interest. No formal timeline or vacancy procedures were announced at the meeting.

Ending: Trustees closed the exchange by thanking Langley for his service and moving on to the superintendent's report and other agenda business.