The Ames School Board wants to make an appointment to fill the vacancy created by last week's resignation of director Rodney Briggs. Under state law, the board has until June 1st to seat a new member. Applications will be taken until May 17th and materials are available on the district’s website and at its business office. The board will hold a forum for applicants before the May 21st meeting, where it also hopes to chose a new member. The public can petition the board to hold a special election to fill the seat. About 1,200 signatures would be needed in 14 days to force a vote in July that would cost the district $15,000. The new school board member will serve the rest of Briggs’ term, which runs through November 2019.