WARNER ROBINS -- Five Houston County residents are vying for the board of education seat left empty by former Chairman Tom Walmer.

The board accepted applications until 4 p.m. Thursday and now is tasked with choosing among the following residents: Kynette Cheatham, a software analyst; Edward J. Dyson, a retired educator; Jon Nichols, a general manager; R. Richard Unruh, a youth pastor and retired school media specialist, and Andrea Jordan, a retired educator, according to information from Beth McLaughlin, district spokeswoman.

The open position represents Post 1, which includes Centerville Elementary, Eagle Springs Elementary, Northside Elementary, Parkwood Elementary, Westside Elementary, Thomson Middle and Northside High schools.

The next step will be during the board work session on March 11, when the candidates will publicly address board members, explaining why they want the position. Board members will discuss the applicants during an executive session and then vote on the newest board member during the regular board meeting on March 12. The appointed board member will serve until the July 2014 elections.

The position was vacated last month when Walmer stepped down after 11 years on the board and nearly five years as chairman. Board member Marianne Melnick replaced Walmer as board chair.

To contact writer Jenna Mink, call 256-9751.