Brenda Rantz considers herself a leader who guides rather than steps out in front.
"I would prefer to walk alongside someone else in this journey called life rather than be in the forefront," says Rantz, director of finance and board treasurer for Nixa Public Schools. "Not only can you support each other, but you can also make sure you are headed in the same direction and the ultimate goal is achieved."
Rantz supervises school business operations, keeps expenditures in check and budgets balanced, and makes sure the district complies with rules and regulations to yearly audits.
"I believe a leader must always give back and guide others through their endeavors," she says. "I make it a point to present at workshops and always be available so other school districts and area leaders can ask questions."
Since 1998, Rantz has been a member of the Missouri Association of School Business Officials, which promotes the highest standards of school business management. Rantz serves on the membership and strategic planning committees; sat on the board of directors 2004-07; and was awarded the Missouri School Business Official of the Year in 2003.
Whether she's working in Nixa or in a statewide role, her aim is simple.
"Many times, the school finance world is a guessing game as funds come in and out," Rantz says. "Working together to help everyone be successful is my goal."
And she is mindful of how her actions directly influence children.
"Sometimes the people who seem to have the least potential just need someone to believe in them. Working with children, which has been one of the greatest joys in my life, is a good example of this," she says. "When you guide (children) along and believe in them and actually care for them, they blossom and achieve more than you could imagine. This is the same for employees. I believe in people."
For the last two years, Rantz has represented the school district on the Nixa Economic Development Committee.
"This is a council dedicated to a balanced and prosperous economy through support of education, local government and the growth of business and industry while inspiring community spirit," she says.
She also sits on the Nixa School District Strategic Planning Committee, which oversees the school improvement planning process.
"Education is the key," Rantz says. "To have a part in planning the future of children, not just today's children but all those who will be coming to school, is something I will always cherish."
Extracurricular activities also include mentoring breast cancer survivors.
"My mentorship was born on the second day of my cancer treatment when I sat beside a lady who was terrified of the unknown that was about to happen to her for the first time," Rantz says. "When I held her hand and told her that this was my second day of treatment and she was going to be just fine, my purpose was born and is still going strong after five years."[[In-content Ad]]
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