Jackson schools get ready for board member election

JACKSON, Mo. -- The Jackson School District will start accepting applications on Dec. 18 for three school board positions to be chosen by election this April. One seat is being vacated by a 12-year-veteran.

Darrell Hanschen, who has served four terms on the board, will not seek re-election when his term expires in April.

Two other three-year positions will be for seats currently held by board members T. Wayne Lewis and Vicki McDowell.

12 years enough

Hanschen, the owner of Medicap Pharmacy in Jackson, said the time is right for him to step down.

"I've given 12 years," he said. "It's time to let someone else take over."

Hanschen and his wife, Cheryl, have a son in law school and twin daughters attending college. When his term is over, he is planning to sit back, relax and concentrate on his family and business for some time before deciding if he wants to serve on another board.

"I've enjoyed it immensely, and it's been very rewarding," he said, "but I think 12 years is probably enough."

Lewis, who will be finishing his fifth term in April, said he's not done serving yet and is looking forward to running for re-election.

"This is probably the most enjoyable board I've ever worked with," Lewis said. "There will be a time when I know I need to get off the board, but it's not now."

Lewis is a dentist in Jackson who has five grown children with his wife, Linda.

"I feel like if I stop, there will be things I'll be leaving behind and I don't want to do that," he said.

McDowell, a county health nurse, has been out of town since Wednesday and could not be reached.

Persons interested in applying for one of the three positions may inquire at the Jackson School Board Office at 614 E. Adams from Dec. 18-Jan. 15 during regular business hours.

hkronmueller@semissourian.com

335-6611, extension 128