Kelly School Board: Kindel Ward

Age: 51

Place of Birth: Poplar Bluff, Missouri

Spouse, children's names:

Jennifer "Candy" Ward-Spouse

Andy Ward-Son

Grace Ward-Daughter

Garrett Ward-Son

John Ward-Son

Occupation: Trooper

Employer: Missouri State Highway Patrol

Business owned, all or part:

Custom Bushhogging and Lawn Service

Previous offices held or sought:

Scott County R-4 School Board

Do you currently hold the office for which you are running? Yes

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

I worked as a school bus driver until 1987, when I became a Deputy Sheriff. I am currently serving my fifteenth year as a Missouri State Highway Patrol Trooper. I am serving my third year as President of the Scott County R-4 School Board and I have been a member of the School Board for a total of nine years. I also serve on the Sikeston Area Higher Education Advisory Council.

What do you believe is the greatest challenge facing your school district?

It is a big challenge trying to use district funds to budget for all of the needs of the school. Our students deserve the best that we can offer in all areas and that requires careful strategic long-range planning. It is a growing challenge to provide the best in all areas of the school when funding in education is limited.

If elected, do you have any plans for improving the school district?

We need to steadily improve options for our students to become active and involved in their school. Some of the most recent additions have included: Elementary Drama Club, Chess Club, Soccer, Golf, Football, Jazz Band, and a competitive Robotics Team. I feel activities like these are opportunities, outside of the regular classroom setting, for our children to develop confidence, strong work ethics and how to work together to succeed.