Age: 50

Family: Wife, Jennifer; six children, oldest two (Matthew and Michael) in the U.S. Army, twins (Jenna and Jamison) graduate this year, Meaghan is a sophomore and Eric is in the seventh grade. My father is a retired State Trooper and my mother is the retired Leavenworth County treasurer.

Education: Approximately 85 hours of college.

Occupation: Kansas State Trooper for 27 years

Political and government experience: Other than my job, just one year on the school board.

Clubs or organizations: I belong to the Missouri-Kansas Anti-Vehicle Theft Association (president). I am a member of the International Association of Auto Theft Investigators (certified as an advanced auto theft investigator), Missouri-Kansas Heavy Equipment Theft Investigators, Colorado Auto Theft Investigators, Nebraska Auto Theft Investigators, National Odometer and Title Fraud Enforcement Association, Midwest Odometer, and Title Fraud Enforcement Association. I have coached and been active in the Tonganoxie Recreation Commission for approximately 15 years.

Why are you running for school board?

I think it is very important to serve the community. I am a big advocate of education and I want to be a part of making sure we do the best we possibly can for our children by providing them the best possible education and learning environment.

What is your top priority for the district and why?

Continuing with our education priorities, we also need to look into a new elementary school when finances allow. We are growing rapidly as a school district.

What qualifications should voters know about you?

Well my work experience speaks for itself. I have a good education. I graduated from THS. I am honest, fair and objective. With children in the district I think I have a good idea of our education goals.

What is the most pressing issue facing the school district and how do you propose to take care of it?

Right now it would be the budget and making sure we have what we need to provide a good education. Looking at other ways of funding and possibly cutting some of the budget. These are very hard choices. In light of these uncertain economic times, how should the district move forward knowing it faces less funding? Looking at alternative funding, cutting expenses, being frugal with what we have and consolidating services where possible.

As you campaign, what’s the top issue you’re hearing about from patrons and how do you intend to address it?

Most everyone is concerned with the budget. I have already spoken about this above. Most patrons are concerned with providing a good education. I think we have a very good foundation and outstanding leadership in all parts of the district, from the administration, teachers, classified and unclassified personnel.