By CALLY ANDERSON
Tiger Media Network
On November 7th, Hays residents will have the opportunity to stop by the polls to vote for candidates for the USD 489 Board of Education. There are four at large positions: David Clingan, James Feyerherm, Jayme Goetz, Lori Hertel, Craig Pallister, Allen Park, Ruth Ruder, Duff Watson, Dennis Wilkie, and Derek Yarmer.
Learn more about each candidate below.
David Clingan
Profession: Economic Development
Who are you?
My wife, Jessica, and I have been married for nearly 25 years and have two wonderful daughters, Elizabeth, attending FHSU, and Savannah, a sophomore at Hays High. I grew up in small-town Arkansas and have lived in several states while working in big-box retail management for over 30 years. Ten years ago, Jessica and I found Hays the ideal place to live and raise our children because it is a great community, with friendly people, and excellent school standards.
I attend North Oak Community Church, am a Hays Rotary Club board member, part of the Hays High athletic booster club, and work for Grow Hays, a not-for-profit organization for Ellis County Economic Development.
Why Should voters vote for you?
If I am elected to the school board, my decision-making philosophy and core beliefs would revolve around the following:
- Prioritizing the well-being and educational success of the students is the primary focus of all decisions.
- Supporting and investing in effective teaching practices, professional development for educators, and a curriculum that prepares students for the challenges of the modern world.
- Ensuring that all students, regardless of background, abilities, or circumstances, have access to high-quality education and opportunities for success. Promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in all aspects of school life.
- Being a steward of the public funds and ensuring that resources are allocated efficiently and effectively to support educational goals.
- Recognizing that education is evolving and committing to improving educational practices and policies to ensure the district remains relevant.
It is imperative that school board members be responsive to the needs of their community while upholding ethical standards and legal requirements for education. They must work professionally and respectfully, setting a high standard and showing a vision for growth in our school district.
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I am seeking a position with the USD 489 School Board because I am committed to serving this community and believe the time and investment into our schools are critical to all of our futures. My previous experience with 30 years of management and human resources has prepared me to navigate change, listen objectively to all views, communicate effectively, and demonstrate the courage to respectfully voice an unpopular opinion when needed. These skills will help me focus on my priorities, including quality education for the students, teacher and staff support, school safety, district and school board transparency, and maintaining the momentum needed for future growth.
What are your ties to USD 489?
My wife, Jessica, teaches English Language Arts at Hays High School, and my youngest daughter, Savannah, is a sophomore. My oldest daughter, Elizabeth, graduated from Hays High in 2022. In 2022, USD 489 needed to pass a $143.5 million school bond to address a growing student population and buildings in need of renovations. I was fortunate to be the Chair of the “Count Me in for Hays” committee that worked to inform the community about the needs in our school district and what it would take to achieve success. I became an emergency substitute teacher during the 2020-2021 school year.
Anything else you would like to add?
My mother taught 7th and 8th grade for over 20 years in Arkansas. She shared the joys, challenges, and struggles of being a teacher. Through her love of teaching and from so many other educators, I saw the fruits of their labor over the years.
Through any and all challenges, a community must strive to support our school district’s students, educators, and staff. As a potential school board member, I want to do my part to support them now and be proactive for their future needs.
James Feyerherm
Profession: District Manager, Hays Social Security Administration
Who are you?
I grew up on a farm in northeast Nebraska. I graduated from West Point High. While working full-time, I earned a degree in political science and history at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. My family moved to Hays in 2002. I have worked for the Social Security Administration since 1990.
Why Should voters vote for you?
I have experience with hiring, budgets and working together on various boards and committees. I am not looking to turn anything upside down or chart a new course for the district. Steady leadership, commitment to students, teachers and taxpayers are all things that I will strive for.
“Every Student. Every Day,” should be our true goal. USD 489 should promote excellence in math, science, and literature so that our students can excel at any university they choose. Just as important, though, we need to extend that same commitment to students that may not want to go to college. We need professionals in trades, as well. We need to promote more career exploration at the high school level so that kids that are educated here can start their own business here in Hays and get good-paying, professional jobs here in Hays. We need mechanics and carpenters and electricians and plumbers. These are good jobs that can be filled by the great people that already live in Hays. My passion is that every student is given the opportunity to succeed in their own way.
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I like to say, “Good government does not make for good television.” Good government is about the hard work of looking at budgets, weighing priorities, finding common ground, and moving forward. It’s not always exciting. Board meetings should be about getting feedback from the public and explaining to the public what is going on in THEIR schools. The fact that we voted for the bond tells me that our community cares about schools. I just want us to live up to all we can achieve if we work together.
What are your ties to USD 489?
All five of my children have attended Hays public schools at the elementary, middle, and high school level. My youngest two children currently attend Hays High School.
Anything else you would like to add?
I was on Messiah Lutheran Church’s board of directors for just shy of 20 years. One thing I was extremely proud of as a board member was that we respected the sacrifice that people made when giving their offerings to the church. I always felt that we were careful and responsible with how we spent the money with which we were entrusted. I will act with the same care of the Board of Education.
Jayme Goetz
Profession: Math Instructor at FHSU
Who are you?
I am a wife, a mother of two, and an avid supporter of education. I love the community of Hays as I have spent almost my entire life here and want to help it grow into a thriving hub of support and success. I believe a strong education system that serves our students is the best way to do that.
Why Should voters vote for you?
Growing up here in Hays, my husband and I were both products of USD 489. We were lucky to have been a part of a school system that put emphasis on relationships, rigor and relevance. The skills we obtained from each class were a vital part of our acceptance—and eventual success—at Fort Hays State University. While I did not set out to be a math teacher, after graduating from FHSU, I decided I wanted to provide the same kind of support and inspiration that I received while growing up, so I accepted a position at Ellsworth Junior/Senior High. After spending one year in Ellsworth, I returned home to teach at Hays High for seven years before accepting a position at Fort Hays as an instructor. Because of my extensive time spent in differentiated levels of education, I have seen firsthand how quality instruction can benefit our students and, consequently, our community.
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
As a potential board member, I look forward to working together to strengthen and unify our board. I strive to collectively come to agreements that benefit our students, staff members, community, and district stakeholders. By improving relations with our district stakeholders, we can continue to ensure that USD 489 meets its mission of providing a quality learning experience for every student every day. Part of that means ensuring a positive work environment for those charged with educating our kids.
With the recent bond passing, I am very excited that our staff and students will have improved facilities to foster a growth mindset, as well as keep them safe. I also believe in the importance of transparency and clear communication to members of the community who entrust their children and hard-earned tax dollars to this district. Each decision that comes through the board impacts someone in our community, and I feel it is our responsibility to research and ask questions to help us better understand our options in order to select the best one.
Hays is an amazing place to live. Our community fosters growth, encourages safety, and has a hometown feel that you can’t get anywhere else. As a potential school board member, I want to ensure that USD 489 continues to be the best place for our kids to learn and grow in the state of Kansas.
What are your ties to USD 489?
I was a K-12 student in USD 489 before getting my degree at FHSU. I then became an educator in the district for seven years and loved working with the students and watching them grow. I now have two children of my own, both who attend school in USD 489 and I want to do everything in my power to help make this the best district in the state.
Anything else you would like to add?
Education has been through some tough times lately on the national and state level. Our district, specifically, has undergone some scrutiny in the progression of our bond and new facilities. I want to provide support for our educators, staff members, and students as we embark on a new chapter.
Lori Hertel
(Candidate chose not to provide a photo)
Profession: Retired, Ph.D. Health Psychologist
Who are you?
I am a mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, great-aunt, friend, community volunteer, and pet mom. Each role is easy, except for the roles of mother, daughter, and sister. Unfortunately, I lost two of my beautiful children, Ana (age 17) and Steven (48 hrs. old) when they were young. I continue to be sad from their death and believe they were a complete inspiration to me and others while they were living. My parents and sister passed away within the last five years and the experience has been devastating.
I grew up in Garden Center, moving to Goodland to complete my high school education. My father mostly worked and flourished in law enforcement and when we moved to Goodland, he became a police chief. I was always so proud of my father and wanted to be just like him. He was always fair, honest, trustworthy, and full of integrity. I longed for that, and I hope he is proud of me today. My mother worked at various jobs and just never seemed satisfied. She was likely clinically depressed, but the resources were hardly available at the time to help her.
Upon completing high school, I went to school at Fort Hays State University where I finished my Master of Science in Counseling in 1989 and returned to school at Walden University where I received my Doctor of Philosophy in Health Psychology in 2011, With my education I have worked as a Court Service Officer, director of several non-profit organizations, a mental health therapist, and an evaluation therapist. I loved my employment and believed I made an excellent choice for myself regarding my education and employment experiences. I am married and have three children. As mentioned before, two of my children are deceased. Our third child is our complete joy.
Why Should voters vote for you?
I believe I represent all citizens of Ellis County, especially those who have children attending USD 489 school district. My primary concern is the students who attend the school district and that will always be my priority. I believe I have a keen perspective on the needs of most children, as I experienced my own children participating in most programs within the school district. I also believe it is important that teachers’ and staff members’ needs are considered as they provide an excellent service to our children and need to be recognized for such.
Now is a crucial time in our school district. The community members have passed a bond that not only will affect them personally but will add major successful changes to our school district. We need a Board of Directors that can provide leadership to the inner-workings of the construction projects. I believe I can do that with a balanced view, combining the construction requests, administrative requests, overview of what is real and perceived through the paperwork received, and finally community feedback. I further believe I can do so in the interest of the community and students/teachers/staff involved.
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I am running for a second term for the USD 489 School Board because I love it and I believe I can make a difference. The community has provided a fantastic opportunity for USD 489 students. The construction of educational buildings is phenomenal and will provide a successful educational experience for students. I would like to continue to be a part of that experience. I would also like to continue helping students/teachers/staff/and community members through the changes that will take place due to a new school setting. I love advocating for students. I will continue my goal of doing so.
What are your ties to USD 489?
I have two ties to USD 489: First and most importantly, my children attended the USD 489 schools and did very well. They were treated with respect and received an excellent education. My daughter needed special services for her special needs and her team of specialists became like family.
My second tie includes my employment with USD 489 as a prevention specialist. My position name escapes me, so I am calling it prevention specialist. It was a grant-funded position. Unfortunately, the grant was completed so my job ended, and I gained employment at another agency. I loved working for the school district. It was especially great that I got to work with some of the students and work with the teachers on numerous projects. Everyone was very professional and worked hard to make a difference in the lives of their students.
Anything else you would like to add?
Thank you for the chance to answer questions about my running for USD 489 School Board. Ifanyone has any questions or concerns, I would love to hear from you. My email is lhertel@usd489.com. I will work hard to ensure that your questions are answered, and your concerns are resolved if possible.
Craig Pallister
Profession: Retired teacher/principal
Who are you?
USD 489 Board of Education incumbent – vice president two terms, president one term
Education – BS Psychology Fort Hays State University – MS Education Administration Fort Hays State University
Military (Veteran) – Kansas Air National Guard
Experience – 38 years in education (teacher/principal)
Retired in 2018 as principal of Hays Middle School after 21 years, and assistant principal four years HMS
Married – 43 years to Sue Pallister – teacher, librarian (retired)
Children – Kaylea, Lauren (attended/graduated USD 489)
Grandchild – Reagan (attends USD 489)
Hays resident – 30 years +
Why Should voters vote for you?
I am asking voters to re-elect me to the USD 489 Board of Education. I have the experience and knowledge as a teacher, principal, and incumbent school board member to support our schools.
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I am running for re-election:
- To support and increase student achievement at all levels
- To provide all students with updated facilities in a safe learning environment
- To retain and recruit the best teachers, administration and staff as possible
- To support making K-12 funding a priority in Kansas for our public school students in Hays/Ellis County
What are your ties to USD 489?
As listed above I am a retired Hays Middle School principal and my wife is a retired teacher of USD 489. My children and granddaughter have and are attending the schools of USD 489.
Anything else you would like to add?
I want to publicly thank all who proudly call Hays home: the patrons, parents, and grandparents of USD 489, as well as the City Commission of Hays for their support for USD 489 the past four years. I am asking for your vote on November 7th to build on our accomplishments over the last four years. We need a BOE that has a united, positive focus on students, staff, teachers, and administrators, to achieve educational growth for all students.
Grow Hays – Good to Great!
Allen Park
Profession: Retired teacher and school administrator, business owner, works for UPS part-time
Who are you?
Education is very important in my family. I am the son of educators. My dad was a farmer/school administrator, and my mom was an elementary school teacher. I have lived in Hays for over 41 years. Both my wife and I graduated with bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Fort Hays State University. I have a bachelor’s degree in industrial technology and elementary education, and a master’s degree in education administration. Our oldest daughter has three degrees from Fort Hays State University, a daughter who graduated from Kansas State University, and a daughter and son who currently attend FHSU. Being involved in the community is important to me. I am currently serving as the Vice President of Sunrise Rotary Club, a member of the Oktoberfest Committee, USD 489 Foundation Board, the Cottonwood Extension Office 4-H Youth Development Council, Hays High Academic Club, and Hays High Booster Club. I am the Hays Kansas Association of School Board Delegate. I am a current Kansas Principal Association and United School Administrators of Kansas member.
Why Should voters vote for you?
I will continue to learn what I can by investing the time necessary to learn about serving on the board. In March of 2023, I was nominated and selected to be a part of 25 educators and board members across the state for the 2023-2024 Leadership for Tomorrow Class. This training gives board members, superintendents, and administrators time to explore change theories and strategies, participate in leadership skill training, and expand their understanding of education and key issues for effective governance and raising student achievement. Through five two-day sessions, the class visits local schools, hears classroom presentations, and participates in class discussions of issues and challenges facing Kansas education. I am the only board member with 100% meeting attendance in four years and will continue to ask the hard questions to strive to make USD 489 the best district possible.
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I am running for the board to listen and be a voice for the community. The Hays district means a lot to me. It has done a great deal for my family, and I would like to give back to ensure future kids and families have the same or better opportunities as mine did.
What are your ties to USD 489?
I worked for USD 489 for over 35 years as a paraeducator, teacher and coach, and 25 years as Washington Elementary School Principal. We have four children who attended USD 489 public schools for 27 years, all graduating from Hays High School. This is my fourth year serving on the school board and look forward to continuing serving the Hays community in this capacity.
Anything else you would like to add?
I want to work as a positive team member to put ”Kids and Families First.” I would like to increase involvement and trust in the district with the entire school community. I believe my experience as a parent and educator in USD 489 will continue to serve me well as a school board member. I am familiar with the staff, facilities, and history of the district. Hays is an amazing community, and our students deserve an amazing school system.
Ruth Ruder
Profession: Vice-President Golden Plains Credit Union
Who are you?
I was born in Hays and attended Elementary, Middle and High School in Hays. I am married to my husband Vernon for 34 years and we have three children, Mason (32), wife Tori
and grandchildren Ryleigh and Isabelle, Blake (29), wife Rachel and my daughter Erin (15), who
is currently attending Hays High School. I am employed by Golden Plains Credit Union for 30 years. I am Vice-Chair of the organization Women Who Lead and I am also an Ambassador with the Hays Area Chamber of Commerce.
Why Should voters vote for you?
I will be honest and truthful and I will do what I believe is best for the student, the teachers, administration, staff and the taxpayer.
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I believe in the potential that the district has for this community. I believe that we are approaching large changes in the district and I will work well in all areas in helping make the right choices for all involved. I will listen to questions, concerns and ideas to make informed decisions for the betterment of our students.
What are your ties to USD 489?
I attended Elementary, Middle and High School in the district graduating in 1988. I have a daughter who is currently a Sophomore at Hays High School. All of my children currently attend or have attended USD 489 schools.
Anything else you would like to add?
I will work hard for the district of USD 489 by applying my skills from my current employment, current boards I am on or have been a part of. As a board member, I will work with administration, faculty and staff so the students can focus on growing their educational journey.
Duff Watson
Profession: I.T. Director
Who are you?
I have been an auto mechanic, I managed a three-bay shop in Denver, a John Deere mechanic, taught technology for 18 years and am now an I.T. Director going on my 10th year.
Why Should voters vote for you?
I will bring a different perspective to the position. I taught in a public school for 18 years. I am currently the I.T. Director at Holy Family Elementary. If I am elected I will listen to everyone’s concerns before making a decision, and the decision will be based on what is best for students.
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I think I can help make USD 489 a better place for the education of the students. I have talked to many people around Hays and they are unhappy with some decisions that have been made by the current board.
What are your ties to USD 489?
I have a daughter who is teaching in USD489 but I am running because I see a need for some changes to make it a better school.
Dennis Wilkie
Profession: Project Manager, Roofmasters Roofing
Who are you? I am a Husband, Father of five, Veteran and Experienced builder. I grew up on
the west coast and traveled the country through athletics. Landing in the Midwest to start a
family. I love Jesus and I am a volunteer at our local church.
Why Should voters vote for you?
It’s not so much about me, but what is possible in USD 489. We have all of the talent and potential to be a top district in the state. We need a return to the basics. I will figure out how to get us there. New buildings are great and needed. However, our educational results should equal or exceed the draw of a new building.
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
Our parents in this district need a voice that is sensible, wise, and experienced. We need a board that listens to all the information and then makes an informed decision based on common sense. We are responsible for the next generation’s education and stewarding that resource. Our future is now.
What are your ties to USD 489?
I have a daughter who graduated from Hays High School in 2022 and two sons that attend O’laughlin Elementary. My wife is a substitute teacher in the district.
Anything else you would like to add?
Our schools should not be responsible for educating our kids. Our families and communities should be responsible for the moral upbringing and values of our children. Not the other way around. Thank you and remember to vote.
Derek Yarmer
Profession: ER Doctor
Who are you?
Father to three children in the Hays USD 489 school district
Why Should voters vote for you?
I am fiscally conservative and will make sure the money from the school bond will go to build/remodel the schools as voted for by the constituents of USD
Why are you running for the Board of Education?
I want to make sure that the school district builds the schools it promised at the price it promised.
What are your ties to USD 489?
I am the father to three children in the school district.
Anything else you would like to add?
It is very important that the school board be representative of parents and act as good stewards of the money given to the school district by the constituents of USD 489. I hope that USD 489 residents will get out to vote and vote for people who represent their values and will provide proper oversight of the superintendent and other administrators of the district.
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