PORT HUENEME : Templeman Lauded by School Board

When Herbert Templeman was first elected to the board of the Hueneme Elementary School District, the student population stood at 3,744 and the district’s operating budget was $1 million.

That was in July of 1959.

Since then, the district has built six new schools and has seen its student population grow to more than 7,000. This year’s budget was $28 million.

“It’s not like what it used to be,” Templeman said this week, as he reflected back on his 33 years of service on the school board.

The 69-year-old physician lost his reelection bid on Nov. 3, when he was edged out by newcomers Rafael (Ralph) Ramos, a labor contractor, and Marla A. Petal, a special education consultant. Petal will take over the position vacated by board member Jesus Cirino, who retired after serving 28 years.

“I just think people wanted a change,” Templeman said of his defeat. “I don’t think it was because they were mad at me. I just think, if they saw the word incumbent on (the ballot), you were out.”

Templeman shrugs his shoulders, and says he doesn’t take the loss personally.

“I don’t have any regrets,” he said. “I think I’ve given them a good shot. I enjoyed it.”

Of his accomplishments on the board, Templeman said he is most proud of the fact that the district managed to build new schools, pay off all of its construction debts and balance its budget each year without ever having to lay off any teachers.

“We’re in very good shape financially,” he said. “I don’t think there are too many districts that can say that.”

Supt. Ronald C. Rescigno and colleagues praised Templeman for his dedication.

“In terms of how this district has grown in stature, a lot of it has been due to his guidance and direction,” Rescigno said. “He’s been a great mentor and a terrific person to work with. I can’t say enough about him.”

Board member Elaine K. Garber agreed.

“I respect him very much,” she said. “He was very easy to work with.”

The board paid tribute to Templeman at his last official board meeting Monday, honoring him with a framed certificate outlining his contributions. He also received commendation letters from Gov. Pete Wilson, Assemblyman Jack O’Connell (D-Carpinteria) and state Sen. Gary K. Hart (D-Santa Barbara).

But perhaps the greatest tribute he received was in 1987, when the district named its new $1-million administrative offices on North Ventura Road the Herbert C. Templeman Education Center.

Although Templeman enjoys the distinction of being the longest serving board member in the Hueneme district, and possibly in the county, it will not be for much longer.

Garber, 65, was appointed to the board two months after Templeman was first elected in 1959 and has been successful in every reelection bid since.

“I guess I’m going to surpass him,” she said. “I’ve got two more years to go.”