Latest news with #JoplinBoardofEducation
Yahoo
09-04-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Voters in Jasper County decide range of city and school board races, issues
CARTHAGE, Mo. — A quarter-cent Jasper County sales tax that would have funded services to children who need mental and behavioral health treatments failed Tuesday by a margin of 419 votes, according to complete but unofficial returns Tuesday night. The measure, listed on the ballot as Proposition A, received 4,100 "yes" votes, but there were 4,572 "no" votes. Joplin Incumbent David Weaver was reelected to the Joplin Board of Education, and former school board member Lori Musser will return to a board seat. Musser carried the highest vote total of 1,660; Weaver received 1,630. Other candidates were former board member Derek Gander, who received 818 votes, and Thomas Ross, who had not run for public office before and received 616 votes. There were no Joplin City Council races this year. Carthage Carthage voters said "yes" to two tax proposals to benefit the school district. The first measure to increase the district's operating levy from $3.05 per $100 of assessed valuation to $3.60 to help cover rising costs and give teachers a pay increase passed by a margin of 612 votes. The measure received 1,960 "yes" votes or 59.25%; "no" votes were 1,348, or 40.75%. Voters also passed a measure to extend the district's 83-cent debt service levy for an additional five years to raise $25 million to build an auditorium with more classrooms and a tornado shelter at Carthage High School. It passed by a margin of 911 votes. It received 2,111 "yes" votes and 1,200 "no" votes, or 63.76% to 36.24%. The measure required a four-sevenths majority, or 57.1% of the vote, to pass. Passage extends the debt service levy to 2045. Superintendent Luke Boyer said the district was looking at a bleak financial future before the voters gave their nod of approval to the levy increase. "We were going to have to cut programs, increase staff and teacher ratios," Boyer said. "So there's a sense of relief that we're not in that situation, but at the same time I want to reiterate we're going to continue to look at our programs and evaluate costs and cut where possible. This is not a fix for all things financial, that's for sure. I think the biggest difference between yesterday and today is the overwhelming support we feel from our community." The approval of the auditorium bond issue comes on the fourth attempt in the last five years. Boyer said the district has completed about 30% of the planning for the auditorium, which will be located in the middle of the campus just south of the high school building. Boyer said right now the plan is for the tornado shelter for the high school to be in the classroom section of the auditorium, but that could change. The district has applied for a Federal Emergency Management Agency storm shelter grant that would pay 75% of the cost of a storm shelter, and if it gets that, the shelter could be larger. In the city of Carthage, David Bren Flanigan beat Ed Hardesty for mayor, 1,302 votes to 608. A council incumbent in the 1st Ward, Chris Taylor, with 78 votes, lost to Kate Gilpin, with 86 votes. There were two races for seats to represent the 3rd Ward. David Thorn, with 218 votes, beat George Butler III, who had 172 votes for a two-year term, while Jack Perkins received 207 votes for a one-year term in the ward, beating Katrina Short, who received 199 votes. There also was a race in the 4th Ward where Alan Snow received 541 votes to the two-year term to T.J. Teed's 195 votes. Two candidates were seeking the two-year term in the 5th Ward — Ron Wells got 234 votes to Keith Hurlbut's 203 votes. A candidate for the 2nd Ward, Ray West, was unopposed. Two candidates for the Carthage School Board were within one vote of each other. Ryan Collier, with 2,489 votes, and Niki Cloud, with 2,488 votes, to take the two seats. They were not opposed. Carl Junction Residents of Carl Junction returned a familiar face to the mayor's post. Michael "Mike" Moss will be the mayor again. He received 216 votes to defeat opponent Rick Flinn, with 177. Tom Paul got 171 votes, LaDonna Allen had 97 votes, and Karma Wright had 91 votes. Candidates for alderman in the town's four wards were unopposed. Winners are Hollie LaVigne, 1st Ward; James Shanks, 2nd Ward; David Pyle, 3rd Ward; and Anita Francis, 4th Ward. For the Carl Junction Board of Education, Larry Cowger and Robert Hays won the two seats to be filled. Cowger received 672 votes, Hays 618 and Julianna Crow 599. Webb City Scott Smith is the winner of a one-year term on the Webb City School Board with 599 votes. His opponent, Austin Simpson, obtained 464 votes. Stephen Crane won a three-year term on the Webb City board with 852 votes, as did Dan McGrew with 791 votes. Brad Baker was the winner of a race for the Ward 3 council member. He garnered 146 votes, and his opponent, Fred Fletcher-Fierro, received 28. Andy Queen was unopposed in the 1st Ward; Gina Monson was unopposed in Ward 2. Carterville Two candidates for Ward 3 alderman in Carterville tied. Mike Dudley and Cody Franks each received 10 votes for the seat. In Ward 4, Brenda Cupp with 10 votes edged out David Patterson with 7 votes. Warren Myers was unopposed in Ward 1; Judy Martin was unopposed in Ward 2. Oronogo The city of Oronogo's Proposition A for a 2% use tax equal to that city's sales tax rate failed by a vote of 89-66. Purcell Winners of two at-large seats on the Purcell Board of Aldermen are Staci Long, with 20 votes, and Regan Weston with 15. Other candidates were Carl Bud Crease, 14; Sam Russell, 9; and Clem Stephens, 8. Fire districts Voters in the Duenweg and Jasper fire protection districts both approved a tax proposal to provide operating funding for the fire service. Duenweg's proposal for a 35-cent levy on each $100 assessed value for district support passed with 214 votes in favor and 175 against. The Jasper proposal was a tax of 30 cents on each $100 assessed value for operating funding, which was approved with 229 "yes" votes and 138 "no" votes. Sarcoxie The Sarcoxie School District Proposition C.A.R.E. proposal to borrow $2.5 million for district improvements failed by a vote of 258 against and 104 in favor. Had it passed, the district would have issued general obligation bonds to pay for the work and would have repaid the debt with a levy on property taxes of 45 cents per $100 assessed value. The city of Sarcoxie asked voters approved a measure to impose a city sales tax of 3% on adult-use marijuana with 125 votes in favor and 38 against. In addition, voters chose Susan Daniels, with 28 votes, who beat Catherine Gabler, who had 27 votes, for a two-year term as Ward 2 alderman. Josh Dodson, with 301 votes, and James Ogle, with 257 votes, won seats on the Sarcoxie Board of Education. Unopposed The following candidates also were unopposed and virtually assured of election. Duenweg Fire Protection board of directors — Colton Gurera for a six-year term. Duenweg Board of Aldermen — Ward 2, William Haldeman. There is no candidate Ward 1, and that position could be filled by write-in. Alba Board of Aldermen — Dan Pinola and Patricia Bearden for two-year seats. Asbury Board of Aldermen — Zach Parish and Marti Sowder for two-year terms. Waco Board of Aldermen — Sandra Wintjen for a two-year term. There is no candidate for a second seat, which could be filled by write-in vote. City of Jasper — Becky Elliott for a two-year term as mayor; Kathy Fal for a two-year term as East Ward council member; and William Bill Herron for a two-year term as West Ward council member. Jasper School Board — Jamie Kaderly and Kate Sears for three-year terms. Sarcoxie — Grant Freeman, candidate for city of Sarcoxie Ward 1 alderman. Village of Carytown — The two candidates for two-year terms as village trustee were Tony Leiker and Danny Cawyer. Brooklyn Heights — Two seeking two-year terms for town trustees were Ray Trowbridge and Rick Pendleton. Oronogo — Rick Seeley was unopposed for the two-year term for Oronogo Ward 1 alderman, Michael Renburg for Ward 2 and Darrell Orender for Ward 3. Duquesne — Bill Sherman filed for the two-year term as mayor, Chris Ellsworth as Ward 1 alderman and Mireya (Myra) Gonzalez for Ward 2 alderman.
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
Candidates answer questions about schools
By Debby Woodin dwoodin@ Joplin voters will have four candidates to choose from in the April 8 election to fill two seats on the Joplin Board of Education. The Globe asked each of the candidates to answer a set of questions about the school district and its offerings. This is the first of four responses obtained from the candidates, who are Thomas Ross, an engineer; Lori Musser, a former board member and the academic success coach and coordinator of disability services at MSSU; Derek Gander, a former board member who owns a home inspection business; and incumbent David Weaver, accounting and finance professor at Pittsburg State University. Q: What strengths do you feel Joplin Schools offer students, parents and the Joplin community? Thomas Ross: 'Joplin Schools have many strengths, particularly the commitment to providing a well-rounded education for all students. 'One of the key strengths I see is the district's emphasis on both academic and extracurricular opportunities. With strong programs in STEM, the arts, and athletics, students have opportunities to excel in a variety of fields. 'Additionally, Joplin Schools have a supportive community of parents, educators and local businesses that work together to enhance student outcomes and opportunities. I am also proud of the district's commitment to providing a safe environment, which is essential for fostering academic success.' Lori Musser: 'Joplin Schools offer numerous strengths to students, parents and the community, many of which constituents may not be fully aware of. For instance, the district provides a variety of alternative and diverse academic programs. Programs such as Advanced Placement and Dual Credit allow students to earn college credits, often enabling some students to graduate high school with an entire year of college or even an associate degree already completed. 'Another notable strength of Joplin Schools is the Franklin Technology Center (FTC), which offers trade programs that prepare students for the workforce after graduation. Additionally, Joplin Schools has established several collaborative relationships with local industries and academic institutions, providing students with firsthand experience and knowledge of potential career opportunities or post-secondary education. I believe that Joplin school students are well-equipped to succeed in their chosen endeavors due to the diversity of these programs. 'Furthermore, the district offers many other strengths, such as early childhood programs, capital improvements at some elementary schools, and numerous opportunities for community and parental collaboration through committee participation. Joplin Schools excel in seeking feedback and input from students, parents and the community through these collaborative opportunities.' Derek Gander: 'I believe that Joplin offers a learning environment that benefits our students with awesome facilities and phenomenal staff. While I do believe we have room to grow, we have a solid foundation to work with.' David Weaver: 'Joplin Schools first and foremost have excellent and dedicated teachers who truly care about our students. We have taken good care of our buildings and are working toward providing the same level of facilities for all students. Our high school is large enough to offer many options for career-based to college-bound students. Our size allows us to offer a greater variety in each subject area as well as many electives to give students a chance to test out several career possibilities.'
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
4 seek Joplin School Board seats
Joplin voters on April 8 will elect two to the Joplin Board of Education. There are four candidates in the race, including incumbent David Weaver and two who formerly served on the board. One of the two seats to be filled is that of the current board vice president, Donnie Greenlee, who is not seeking reelection. In addition to Weaver, candidates for the three-year terms are two who previously served, Derek Gander and Lori Musser, and Thomas Ross. David Weaver Weaver is seeking a second term, having been elected in 2022. He is an accounting and finance professor at Pittsburg State University. He said he was influenced to seek an elective post in the Joplin School District because his family has a long history in public education. He said his mother was a teacher and his wife, daughter and sister are all involved in public education. Weaver holds a bachelor's degree in education from Ozark Christian College, a bachelor's degree in business administration from Missouri Southern State University, an MBA in accounting from Missouri State University, and a master's degree in communication from PSU. He currently serves in leadership positions for 10 area nonprofit organizations. 'I believe in public service and giving back to the community,' Weaver said. 'My son will graduate from Joplin High School in May. I believe my leadership skills, educational background and knowledge of finance and accounting make me uniquely qualified to be reelected to the Joplin Schools Board of Education.' Derek Gander Gander previously served two board terms. He was first elected in April 2017 and was returned to office in April 2020. He ran again last year. He owns a home inspection business in Joplin andworked in the construction industry for more than 30 years. He has two children in the school district. His said his experience in business and with the school district led him to run again. 'I served two terms with pride and integrity. I have Missouri-required board training along with being a parent of two students. Being a small business owner and being financially responsible for budgeting, paying local taxes and payroll allows me to understand the business side of the district. Having two students enrolled in the district along with being an active previous board member allows me to understand the day-to-day responsibilities and challenges in the classroom. I served previously during the time of COVID and played an instrumental role in helping in the design of our reentry plan. I see similar challenges now as we return to being financially responsible as we tighten our belts and focus on the mission, educating our students,' Gander said. Lori Musser A former teacher and school administrator, Musser also has previously served on the board. She was first elected to the board in 2016 to complete the unexpired term of Lane Roberts. She then was reelected in April 2018 for a three-year term, which has given her five years of experience. that, along with her 38 years of working in education, led her to seek a school board position again. 'During my 26-year career in K-12, I have served as a parent educator, classroom teacher, reading specialist, school guidance counselor, and school principal. I then continued my education career for 12 more years in higher education as an adjunct professor, academic success coach, and coordinator of disability services. More importantly, I am a mother of two and a grandmother of four. These years as an educator provide me with the background knowledge and expertise that will serve me well if I am granted the opportunity to serve on the board once again,' Musser said. Thomas Ross Ross, is a business owner who previously worked for the city of Joplin for 10 years following the Joplin tornado. He has not run before for the board but previously ran against Lane Roberts for the District 161 seat to represent Joplin in the Missouri House of Representatives. He said he believes his qualifications to serve on the board come from his professional and personal experiences. He worked for the city of Joplin in the engineering department overseeing some city projects. That experience, he said, gave him a foundation in problem-solving, budget oversight and advocacy. He also cited his involvement in the Joplin community, volunteering with Kiwanis, Vita Nova and various other nonprofits. He said that his reasons for wanting to serve on the board are that 'I am committed to making a positive difference for the students and families in Joplin. I am passionate about improving our educational system and working collaboratively with fellow board members to help Joplin Schools provide children with the best education possible to prepare them for their future. 'As a father of two, with my eldest just two years away from entering the school system, I have a personal stake in the success of our schools. I am fully invested in the future of our children and the quality of education they receive, which sets me apart from others seeking the open board positions,' he said.
Yahoo
26-03-2025
- Politics
- Yahoo
School board candidate forum slated
A forum for Joplin voters to hear from the four candidates for Joplin Board of Education will be held Monday at Joplin City Hall. The session will start at 6 p.m. in the City Council chambers. In addition, the forum will be broadcast live on KGCS-TV, Channel 21, and on the Missouri Southern State University Facebook page. It will be hosted by KGCS station manager Lisa Green. Candidates for the two seats to be filled are incumbent David Weaver, former board members Lori Musser and Derek Gander, and Thomas Ross. Each candidate who attends will be given time to introduce themselves and explain why they are running for a board position. Then each will answer six questions. If time permits, questions may be posed by spectators in council chambers, according to Green. Those who attend the forum must use the west entrance of Joplin City Hall, adjacent to the parking lot. Doors will be open from 5 to 7:15 p.m. Doors on Sixth Street and on Main Street will be locked. The council chamber is located on the fifth floor, which can be reached via the main floor elevator. KGCS-TV will repeat the broadcast at 7 p.m. Tuesday, April 1; at 8 p.m. Wednesday, April 2; and at 6 p.m. Thursday, April 3. The forum will also be posted to the KGCS Missouri Southern YouTube channel.
