Craig Pallister has announced his candidacy for the USD 489 Board of Education. With decades of experience in education and leadership, Pallister says he’s running to continue supporting and improving public education for Hays students, teachers, staff and the community.
Pallister has served on the USD 489 Board of Education as both vice president (two one-year terms) and president (one year term). Before retirement, he spent 21 years as principal at Hays Middle School and four years as assistant principal. He also previously worked as a teacher and assistant principal in USD 443.
A Fort Hays State University graduate, Pallister earned his Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a Master’s in Education Administration. He is a U.S. veteran, having served in the Kansas Air National Guard from 1971 to 1977.
Craig and his wife, Sue, have been married for 45 years. Sue is a retired teacher and librarian. The Pallisters have two daughters, Kaylea and Lauren, both graduates of USD 489. Their granddaughter, Reagan, currently attends USD 489, and their grandson, Benjamin, lives out of state. The family has called Hays home for 33 years.
A vision for Hays schools
“I believe USD 489 is an exceptional district, but we must continue to make changes to meet the needs of all students,” Pallister said. “We need to focus on smaller class sizes, more individual attention, and new class offerings to prepare students for both college and the workforce.”
Pallister said one of his priorities would be lowering the teacher-to-student ratio to strengthen learning outcomes and improve classroom relationships. He also supports expanding course options for college-bound students as well as those pursuing technical training or entering the workforce directly after graduation.
To better address academic, behavioral and career needs, Pallister advocates for additional counselors at all grade levels. “Each student should have at least one adult every year who knows them well—someone who can advise them both academically and emotionally,” he said.
Building for the Future
Pallister believes the completion of new and updated facilities under the current bond project will create lasting benefits for future generations. “Once those are complete, the district’s next focus must be on hiring and retaining the best teachers and staff,” he said.
He emphasized the importance of competitive pay and benefits for all employees — from teachers and administrators to para-educators, secretaries, cooks, custodians, coaches and bus drivers. “They’re the backbone of our schools and key to student success,” he said.
When it comes to making decisions as a board member, Pallister said his guiding question will always be: “Is this good for students?”
He also stressed the need for continued advocacy at the state and federal levels, particularly in funding special education as originally promised. “If special education were fully funded, districts could free up additional resources for general education or local tax relief,” he added.
Election Day
Craig Pallister is asking for your vote in the USD 489 Board of Education election on Tuesday, November 4.
For more information, you can contact him at [email protected].