Rodemeyer, Scheperle, Duckworth earn seats on Jefferson City Board of Education

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KMIZ)

Michelle Rodemeyer, Gretchen Duckworth and Kris Scheperle won the three open spots of the Jefferson City Board of Education on Tuesday over Cierra Griffin, Trent Vallandingham, Ryan Towner and James Kindred Sr.

"I'm excited to get to work," Rodemeyer said. I'm honored by the trust our community has placed in me and I'm committed to serving the entire district and our teachers and support staff."

"I just want to thank everyone in Jefferson City and Holt Summit that trusted me with your vote," Duckworth said. "I'm going to continue to work hard for you, our students, our families and our community."

Hot topics for the board have included teacher retention, rising expenses and student behavior. Candidates also have varying focuses ranging from AI use in classes to mental health support and student attendance.

April's election follows the departure of President Erika Leonard in January and outgoing members Brad Bates, Scott Hovis and Suzanne Luther.

ABC 17 News reached out to all the candidates on Tuesday morning. Vallandingham, Towner, and Duckworth reported voting the morning of election day. Griffin and Duckworth cast their ballots during early voting the week prior.

Griffin, Duckworth and Rodemeyer are also hosting watch parties. Griffin's takes place at Indigo Buffalo, Duckworth's is at Towne Grill and Rodemeyer is hosting at West Main Pizza.

For more information on the Jefferson City Board of Education race, visit ABC 17's Voter Guide.

Scheperle was unable to be reached for comment.