Hays Post
The Hays Post will be publishing a series of profiles introducing the community to the 10 candidates who are running for Hays USD 489 school board.
Those candidates are David Clingan, James Feyerherm, Jayme Goetz, Lori Hertel, Craig Pallister, Allen Park, Ruth Ruder, Duff Watson, Dennis Wilkie and Derek Yarmer.
The Hays Post sent questionnaires to the candidates asking for biographical information and why they chose to run for school board.
Not enough candidates filed for the school board to require a primary. The general election will be Nov. 7. The voter registration deadline for the general election is Oct. 17.
David Clingan
Age: 53
Profession: Economic development
Are you an incumbent? If so, years served? N/A
Do you have children or grandchildren who attend Hays public school? Yes
Please give a brief bio on yourself in 100 words or less.
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. Jessica and I found Hays the ideal place to live and raise our children due to the friendly people and excellent schools.
I attend North Oak Community Church, am a board member of the Hays Rotary Club, and work for Grow Hays, a not-for-profit organization for Ellis County Economic Development.
Please explain why you are running for school board in 500 words or less.
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.
A significant step toward these priorities means being part of a school board that earns and maintains the community's respect. This can only happen by building trust, valuing each other's differing opinions and genuinely hearing the students, parents, administrators, teachers and staff. Through these actions, the community and school board can be confident that we are all working together for our school district to move in a positive direction.
The passing of the $143.5 million dollar school bond in 2022 is a significant investment in our students, teachers and community. The bond provides a dynamic and diverse learning environment to meet students' needs and further the growth of our community. As a board member, ensuring accountability, transparency and follow-up regarding the bond is a vital role this community would expect and one I would take seriously.
The primary role of school board members includes overseeing policy, finance and personnel decisions, including superintendent evaluation. These are responsibilities that I will perform with the utmost integrity, straightforwardness and sincerity.