Five candidates have thrown their hats in the ring for two seats available this April on the Springfield Public Schools Board of Education.
The two-year seats opened up after Annie Busch and Jean Twitty declined to seek re-election. Twitty was appointed in October following the resignation of Francine Pratt.
A single five-year seat also is up for grabs. Incumbent Gerry Lee, a program manager for APGA Security and Integrity Foundation and a UPS store owner, is the only person to declare candidacy for the vacancy.
Potential candidates must submit a minimum of 500 signatures from individuals who are registered to vote and reside within the SPS attendance area. The petition deadline was Jan. 19 and SPS spokeswoman Teresa Bledsoe said signatures were verified by Jan. 25.
Candidates on the April ballot will be listed as follows:
Allen Kunkel, associate vice president for economic development and director of the Jordan Valley Innovation Center for Missouri State University
“I am a strong believer in public education and it is the best investment a community can make toward long-term economic development and prosperity,” Kunkel said of his reason for running. “My board and leadership experience, combined with my business, economic development and higher education work, as well as having kids in school and a spouse as PTA leader, it provides a well-rounded perspective to help contribute to board leadership at the district.”
Charles Taylor, communication professor and director of the master’s in communication, and nonprofit and civic leadership programs for Drury University
“As a lifelong educator, I can bring deep professional understanding of the strategies, structures and technologies that can promote student learning and teacher/staff commitment,” he said of his qualifications. “As Drury’s (vice president) of academic affairs for a decade, I could bring an understanding of how to work with a board, as well as an understanding of the importance of aligning always limited resources and structures to meet district priorities.”
Michelle Gavel, preschool teacher at James River Weekday Preschool
“From early childhood education and beyond, a community’s attitude toward learning shapes the destination of that community,” Gavel said, noting she’s also a parent and hopes to be a voice for underrepresented populations. “I know education can open doors you never knew could open for you. Giving that back to other students is my passion. I want to inspire students to look beyond what’s in front of them.”
Melissa Penkalski, assistant professor in the MSU Nursing Department and a pediatric nurse practitioner
“I have always been involved with my children’s education and I feel this is a great opportunity to continue to fulfill that. I also feel medical representation would enhance the board’s expertise,” she said, noting she hopes to promote students’ well-being. “A healthy student is a better educated and engaged student.”
Alina Lehnert, owner of Lehnert Leadership Group LLC
“I’ve spent my career advocating for students and teachers to get the resources and development they need to thrive,” Lehnert said. “Our business community needs a ready, relevant workforce. Taxpayers deserve fiscal stewardship. With a Ph.D. in organizational leadership, a career in higher education and community leadership development, I am confident I can be a voice for all.”
