Scott City School Board: Heraleen Bowers

Heraleen Bowers

Name: Heraleen Bowers

Age: 52

Place of birth: Scott City, MO

Spouse, children's names: Bryan, Adam (2012 Scott City graduate), Bella (Scott City Class of 2016)

Occupation: Information Technology Consultant

Employer: Heryan Services

Businesses owned, all or part: Owner of Heryan Services (22 years) and Sprenger Properties (11 years)

Previous offices held or sought

No elected office but many volunteer positions held including Big Brother/Sister volunteer (10+yrs), Girl Scout leader (9yrs), VBS director (13yrs), Sunday School teacher (20+yrs), chair of Paul Guard Scholarship committee, member of school booster clubs for sports, band, Robotics. Helped with PTO and other school fundraisers. Have had several other volunteer roles at Eisleben Lutheran Church (blood drive coordinator, choir, youth leader)

What is the most important issue facing Scott City Public Schools?

I am concerned about the Common Core standards. I'm a firm believer in high expectations, but these standards are going the opposite direction. They lower expectations, offer confusing educational materials and limit the creativity our teachers can bring to the classroom. We should let teachers do their job to the best of their ability with all the support we can offer. Mandated standardized testing developed afar should not dictate the classroom experience for our children.

What in your background or education makes you qualified for this office?

I have a heart for working with youth with 30+ years volunteering (Big Sister, Girl Scout leader, Sunday School teacher, VBS director). My education at Scott City prepared me well for college (graduated with honors from Rolla in electrical engineering) and a career in IT. We need to produce STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) graduates to help keep more good jobs in our country. This would be a priority for me as board member.

How do you think the board should move forward with a possible no-tax bond issue? If passed, how should the money be spent?

If our board has an opportunity to refinance and save money, that sounds like a no-brainer. We should apply the funds to our highest priority budget needs. I understand our building is in need of some unexpected maintenance due to rain damage, so that might be a good use of any windfall funding.

Do you think the Scott City School District is a good place for teachers to work? Why or why not?

We have a good school with support from administration and community. There is always room for improvement. We could do more to reward teachers who go above and beyond in the classroom. My career choice was influenced by my high school math teacher. Several other excellent, caring teachers also influenced. I want that for all kids and will do all I can as board member to encourage classroom excellence benefitting of all our children.