Excelsior Springs Re-elects Troy Snelling, Welcomes Traci White to School Board

Watch a replay of the April 9th, 2024 special session of ESSD School Board on the Excelsior Citizen YouTube Channel.

Excelsior Springs, MO–During a special session following their regularly scheduled board meeting on April 9, 2024, the Excelsior Springs School Board welcomed one newly elected member, Traci White, and re-elected incumbent, Troy Snelling, to the board.

Two seats were open during the election, and four candidates vied for the honor of serving. White received the most votes, 695 (33.99%), while Snelling secured second place with 516 votes (25.45%).

Before the new members stepped into their roles, the board expressed its deep appreciation for the outgoing member, Rick Strack, who had served on the board for the past six years (2018-2024). Mr. Strack served on the board during difficult pandemic years, but during his tenure, the district achieved much, including constructing Cornerstone and Lewis Elementary. Strack also was a strong voice for implementing safety improvements across the district.

Following a quick reminder of their roles and responsibilities, Traci and Troy took an oath to uphold the constitutions of Missouri and The United States and expressed their commitment to the Excelsior Springs School District for the duration of their terms. The board greeted them with a round of applause, welcoming them officially to their new roles.

With board members in place, a vote was held to determine who would serve in officer positions. There was only one nominee in each case, and the votes were unanimous. Tray Harkins was selected to continue serving as board president, and Snelling was selected to continue as vice president. Superintendent Jaret Tomlinson was selected to continue as board treasurer, and Lisa Shelton was selected as secretary. Darren McKown volunteered to continue serving as Missouri School Board Association (MSBA) Delegate, and Kenny Manley agreed to continue serving as his alternate.