Jackson School Board candidate profiles

Scott Wren

Age: 39

Spouse: Shelly

Children: Jake, 17; Kaley, 17; Caleb, 15

Occupation: Assistant manager of emergency services at Saint Francis Medical Center

Education: Bachelor of science in nursing from Southeast Missouri State University

Memberships: Elks 639, SEMO Football Officials Association, Emergency Nurses Association, MSHSAA, Football Official Association, First General Baptist Church of Jackson

Reason for running: I have a vested interest in the district. One of the only ones with children in the district. I want to give back to the district that I am so proud of.

Other experience: Excellent communication skills, management experience and a desire to grow with the district.

Main challenges: An ever-growing population and an increase in children in the district — constant need for keeping up with change.

Main assets: Excellent teachers and support staff and a great community to support the school

Communication: I believe in open lines of communication, whatever it takes to keep everyone informed of needed information.

Terri Tomlin (incumbent)

Age: 53

Spouse: Michael

Children: Josh, 25

Occupation: Senior Health Care Benefits service representative

Education: Bachelor of science degree in business administration from Southeast Missouri State University

Memberships: Girl Scouts of the Otahki Council Board of Directions, Jackson Chamber of Commerce, Daughters of the American Revolution, Jackson Heritage Association, Old McKendree Chapel Board of Trustees, PEO, American Business Women's Association, New McKendree United Methodist Church

Reason for running: I would like to continue representing the residents of the district in making fair and consistent decisions so that all students are given the opportunity for a great educational experience in Jackson.

Other experience: I have learned a great deal about the many aspects of managing the Jackson School District since my election to the board in 2002. On the surface, it may appear that decisions are made quickly and easily, but be assured that appropriate research is conducted and detailed discussions are held before a determination is made that will affect the students, staff and residents of the district.

Main challenges: I feel that maintaining financial balance of limited revenue and increasing expenses, providing adequate facilities for the ultimate learning environment, as well as attracting and retaining excellent staff members are representative of the challenges faced by Jackson.

Main assets: We are fortunate to have exceptional staff and administration, strong community support, and use our financial resources wisely.

Communication: I visit schools, attend activities and making myself available to all those interested in creating the very best climate for learning in the district.

Mack Illers (incumbent)

Age: 58

Spouse: Doris

Children: Ashley, 23; Susan, 41

Occupation: self-employed

Education: Associate degree in design technology from Linn State Technical College

Memberships: Chamber of Commerce, Missouri School Board Association board of directors

Reason for running: I want to continue the excellence of education Jackson is providing. Every year should improve over the previous year.

Other experience: none listed

Main challenges: operational costs: utilities, gas, health insurance

Main assets: high quality of staff

Communication: I always have an open-door policy. Anybody is free to contact me anytime about anything.

T. Wayne Lewis (incumbent)

Age: 67

Spouse: Linda    

Children: Chris, 41; Lisken, 39; Morgan, 35; Tracey, 37; Brad, 35

Occupation: dentist

Education: University of Missouri, Southeast Missouri State University, UMKC

Memberships: Crossroads Fellowship, Rotary, Masons, Southeast Missouri Medical Center, Chamber of Commerce, Missouri Dental Association, American Dental Association

Reason for running: I like what Jackson  is doing for the students and would like to keep up that excellence in education. We are into a major high school building project, and I would like to keep continuity in that process.

Other experience: I feel that my experience in business and community affairs has been good for the stable growth that we have continued to witness

Main challenges: My theme has always been quality progress in education for our children. Child safety, dealing with cyberspace safety and the continued challenges of growth in our district.

Main assets: The district is blessed with a concerned and caring community — they expect a great education. This draws great teachers, support staff and administrators.

Communication: I try to be involved in the community through my church, business and service organizations. I like to meet one-on-one with people. From the school standpoint we are continually doing more through newsletters, our Web site, and meeting one-on-one with people.

Bruce Thomas

Age: 57

Spouse: Cheryl

Children: Andlle, 36; Clint, 34; John, 28; Julie, 27

Occupation: retired Jackson teacher

Education: Bachelor of science in education from Southeast Missouri State University

Memberships: Cape First Church, Elks Lodge, State Wrestling Hall of Fame; National Wrestling Hall of Fame, teacher of the year

Reason for running: I want to give back to the school and community that allowed me 26 years as a teacher and coach. I miss the students and being involved in their lives and the teachers and administrators I work with. I want the students to gain the best education possible, and I want teachers to know I appreciate and support them.

Other experience: I am a small-business owner, my family owned a construction business, and I am a past member of the police reserves.

Main challenges: completing new building projects, keeping up with technology, promoting a healthy and active lifestyle in school, and a safe and secure environment.  

Main assets: the great qualified staff and teachers; supportive administration; a wonderfully involved community.

Communication: I’m at a lot of school functions, sports, band concerts, pop concerts. I am well-known in the community and would be available on the phone.