MONROE — After eight years, Monroe School Board member Les Bieneman has decided to step down from his seat and hopes to see someone education-oriented aiming to replace him in the spring election. 

Bieneman began his tenure eight years ago. He announced his planned retirement at the end of the board meeting Monday in the Monroe High School library. With a note that pro-education sentiment is high, Bieneman said he is optimistic that with an open seat, someone who finds public education important will fill the spot. 

He added that some qualified individuals may hesitate to run for the board if an incumbent is already in place, but with the seat vacant, perhaps someone who desires more school involvement will secure a spot on the spring ballot. 

The terms of board president Dan Bartholf and treasurer Rich Deprez also expire in April.