JEFFERSON TWP — The two incumbents who ran for re-election to South Butler School Board won along with two challengers, according to unofficial results from Tuesday’s election.

Appointed incumbent Rebecca Freehling Boyd, who cross filed as a Democrat and Republican, received 2,431 votes, slightly outperforming the three other winners, according to unofficial results posted online by the county Bureau of Elections.

Incumbent Bob Goodlin, who also cross filed, received 2,419 votes; George Zacherl, who also cross filed, received 2,363 votes and Republican candidate Jill McDonald received 2,291 votes, according to the unofficial results.

The fifth candidate, Michael Archer, a Democrat, lost with 1,428 votes, unofficially.

Zacherl said he wants better communication between the board and residents and to settle the teachers’ contract.

“I’m excited about the win and ready to get to work for the community,” Zacherl said. “The No. 1 thing I heard from voters today is that we need more transparency between what the board is working on and the community. I want to increase the lines of communication.”

Another goal is to have a contract between the district and its teachers’ union, Zacherl said.

Teachers in the district have been working without a contract for more than three years.

“I want to congratulate Michael Archer. He ran a great campaign. He should be commended for putting himself out there,” Zacherl said.

McDonald said she also wants the contract resolved.

“It was a hard-fought race and I’m very proud to serve the teachers and students of the South Butler School District. I’ll do my best to bring conclusion to the teachers contract that is equitable for all,” McDonald said. “I’m very proud to serve the district with wisdom and grace.”

Boyd and Goodlin couldn’t be reached Tuesday night.

McDonald works for Butler County Human Services and is involved in parent, teacher, student and booster organizations at several schools in the district. She was appointed to the board this year. She is married and has four adult children.

Zacherl, a Jefferson Township resident, is executive director of BNI Western Pennsylvania, a business service firm in Pittsburgh. He is married and has two grown children.

Boyd of Marwood owns Freehling Lumber Co. in Marwood.