Brett Jones Chosen to Fill Vacant Excelsior Springs School Board Seat

Jones Brings Parent Perspective and Tech Experience

Jones, a lifelong Excelsior Springs resident, has four children enrolled in schools across the district and works in the technology sector. His wife is a special needs teacher in the district, which Jones said gives him a unique perspective on both student and staff experiences.

“I am humbled by the confidence the Board has placed in me,” Jones said after his appointment. “I look forward to getting to work for the betterment of our children and schools. I’m also incredibly encouraged and grateful to see so many fellow citizens step up and be willing to serve. They deserve our gratitude and appreciation.”

Jones will be officially sworn in during the next regular board meeting on Tuesday, April 22, at 6:30 p.m., alongside re-elected board members Tray Harkins and Kalyn Goode, who secured their seats in the April 8, 2025 election. The board will also nominate new officers, including president and vice president, during the meeting.

Transparent Selection Process with Five Community Candidates

The board began the appointment process during a special open session on Monday, April 14, where members reviewed applications, outlined the interview format, and discussed questions. Five district residents applied for the vacancy:

• Russell Wenz, a youth coach and nonprofit leader
  
• Doug Richey, a former Missouri State Representative who termed out in 2024 after eight years in office
• Kati Lawrence, a former elementary teacher and local real estate agent
• Kristi Shewell, a three-term former board member and longtime civic volunteer
• Brett Jones, who was ultimately appointed following the April 16 interviews

Each candidate answered the same 12 structured questions in a public setting, covering topics such as teacher retention, school funding, communication, early childhood education, and navigating divisive political issues. After interviews concluded, the board deliberated and voted in open session.

Board member Kenny Manley noted the difficulty of the decision, especially given his personal ties to all five applicants. To ensure fairness, he used a blind scoring system to evaluate each candidate’s answers.

“This was not a decision that was made easily,” Manley said. “I’m grateful to everyone who stepped forward.”

Board members Traci White, Kalyn Goode, and Tray Harkins also emphasized the strength of the candidate pool and encouraged those not selected to consider running in future election cycles.

Looking Ahead

Jones listed teacher retention, improved public communication, and restoring community trust as his top priorities. He also expressed interest in exploring creative budget solutions following the recent defeat of the district’s proposed tax levy.

“The lifeblood of any school is its teachers,” Jones said during his interview.

He noted that keeping great educators in classrooms—even amid financial constraints—will require collaboration, transparency, and some tough conversations.

Board President Tray Harkins praised the professionalism of all candidates and the respectful tone of the process.

“This was a tough choice,” Harkins said. “We’re grateful to the community members who stepped up, and confident that Mr. Jones will bring thoughtful leadership to the table as we face some challenging years ahead.”