Linda Lyon
The Oracle School District (OSD) is happy to announce the swearing-in of two new governing board members on Jan. 14. Elected in November 2020, along with returning board member Linda Lyon (vice president). Edie Crall and Camilo Gotay are replacing outgoing members Steve Brown and Jeff McClure. The new five-member board is rounded out by newly elected board president Gary Terrell of SaddleBrooke Ranch and Jeri Taylor of SaddleBrooke.
Edie Crall is no stranger to serving our community since moving to Arizona from Ohio with her husband Boyd in 2006. Her volunteer efforts include starting the Safe Journey House—Advocacy Center for domestic violence in San Manuel, volunteering at the Catalina Mountain School, serving as a Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA), IMPACT of Southern Arizona board member, and treasurer for the Successful School Bond Political Action Committee.
When asked why she ran for the governing board, Edie explained her thoughts.
“I am a person who loves to be involved and hopes my efforts make a difference in the lives of my fellow citizens,” she said.
As a product of public education, the daughter of an administrative assistant to the school principal, mother of two educators, and grandmother of five who attend public schools, Edie has a real sense of pride in our public schools.
“For too many years children in less affluent school districts have been ‘short changed’ for a variety of reasons. Due to the dedication of staff, parents, and the board, OSD has made great strides in giving students the ability to compete on a level playing field. I am incredibly honored to be a part of this team and look forward to an ever-brighter future for our students,” Edie said.
Camilo Gotay, who resides in Eagle Crest, was born and raised in the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico, USA. He was active in sports in high school, playing baseball and volleyball, and later, was a member of the Puerto Rico Field Hockey National Team.
Educated in electrical and industrial engineering as well as international management and international law, Camilo served as a project manager for several domestic and international corporations around the world. No doubt, his ability to fluently speak Spanish, English, and French as well as some Portuguese and Norwegian, served him well.
His community service efforts include serving as the Habitat for Humanity Puerto Rico Chapter Construction and public relations vice president for four years and past member of the Santa Catalina Parish Pastoral Council.
In response to why he ran for the school board, Camilo shared his philosophy.
“My philosophy is that education is paramount in the development of the individual,” he said.
His involvement in the PTA at his daughters’ schools, as well as being the husband of an educator for almost 40 years, made him aware of what our public schools are dealing with. When he learned a member of the board had opted not to run again, he started thinking this might be a way to help, even though he knows there are some real challenges.
“I know the job will be rewarding because I will have the opportunity to help develop our students today for a better society tomorrow,” Camilo said.