Hamilton USD 390 Pos. 5
1. What is your primary reason for running for this position?
I graduated from Hamilton High School in 1987, and this community gave me the foundation for everything I’ve done in life. After serving 33 years in the U.S. Army, I have returned home with a desire to give back. My reason for running is simple: I want to ensure Hamilton’s schools remain strong, safe, and rooted in the values that built this community—faith, family, and hard work. With some board members stepping down, I feel called to step up. I believe my leadership background and lifelong connection to Hamilton will allow me to serve our students, teachers, and families with integrity.
2. What is your vision for your city/board of education and how would you help achieve it?
My vision is to keep Hamilton schools excellent while preparing students to succeed in life without losing touch with the values that matter most in our community. I will work to support our teachers, strengthen parent involvement, and keep education focused on academics, character, and responsibility. I believe in protecting local control so our schools reflect Hamilton’s priorities, not outside agendas. To achieve this vision, I will listen, ask the right questions, and always put students and families first.
3. What three issues do you consider to be your “top priorities?” My top priorities are: 1. Supporting Teachers and Staff – Giving teachers the tools and backing they need to succeed. 2. Protecting Parents’ Role & School Safety – Ensuring parents have a voice and schools remain safe and welcoming.
3. Fiscal Responsibility & Local Control – Spending taxpayer dollars wisely while keeping decisions in local hands.
These priorities focus on keeping Hamilton schools strong, accountable, and rooted in the values of our community.
4. What background do you have that will help you in this role, if elected?
I retired as a Colonel after 33 years in the U.S. Army, where I led Soldiers, managed budgets, and worked with leaders from across the world. I taught at the Army’s top schools and represented our country as a Defense Attaché overseas. Those experiences gave me the skills to listen, lead, and make sound decisions. I hold two master’s degrees, but my most important credential is that I grew up here in Hamilton. I know the community, I value its traditions, and I want to give back by helping ensure our schools remain strong for future generations.
5. How do you feel the current board/council is doing in their service?
The current board has done a great job serving the community and deserves respect for their dedication. They have kept our schools stable and focused on our children’s success, even during challenging times. Some members have chosen not to continue, and I see that as an opportunity to carry on their good work. I want to step forward now to serve, continue their efforts, and bring my leadership experience to help Hamilton schools stay strong.
6. Please list personal information or other information you feel is important.
I was raised in Hamilton and graduated from Hamilton High School. My wife, Daphne, and I raised four children. One is a pilot in the U.S. Air Force, another is an elementary school teacher in Eureka, a third is a senior in college, and our youngest is still at home. We live on a small farm south of Hamilton where we enjoy the values of rural Kansas: hard work, family, and community. After a lifetime of military service, I have returned home to give back to the place that gave me my start. I believe in listening to parents, supporting teachers, and keeping schools focused on preparing students to succeed in life while holding true to the traditions and values of Hamilton.
