EUGENE, Mo. -- Candidate for Cole R-5 School Board Larry Kemna said his top priority would be getting input from people in the community to inform his focus as a board member.
Kemna is running for a one-year position on the board.
Three positions with three-year terms were available, along with one position with a one-year term. The one-year term is due to the resignation of Sarah Strobel before her term could be completed. Kemna applied for that position, but the board selected Deanna Smith to replace Strobel until the April 4 election. Candidates could declare on their filing paperwork whether they wanted to appear on the ballot for the one-year position or the three-year positions.
Kemna said he wanted to provide "the best learning facility" that the district could offer and prioritize a "first-class education."
One thing he has heard from community members is an interest in having a separate baseball and softball field. Kemna said that would be something he would look into.
Kemna is a lifelong resident of the community and a graduate of Cole R-5.
"My teachers back then helped me prepare for the success that I have today and inspired me to work with the young people in our community. As a member of the school board, I feel that I can help guide the district so every child can have the same experience and success that I did," he said.
"I believe I can bring fresh perspective to the board with a level-minded aspect of what the community wants for the school and the children," he added.
Kemna has worked for Cole County Public Works for almost 26 years, and his maintenance of the local roads has given him the opportunity to speak with members of the public. Kemna has a sophomore daughter in the district.
Also running for the one-year position on the board is Derek Sommerer, a current board member. Sommerer said he wanted to run for re-election to help carry out a few capital projects. Sommerer did not respond to further questions about his priorities or a request for a photo.
Three candidates are running for three open three-year positions on the board: incumbent Spencer Hoskins, incumbent Matt Hale, and incumbent Deanna Smith. Candidates will be listed separately on the ballot for the three-year and one-year positions, according to the district.