Make Your Voice Heard: Research Candidates & Share the Voter Guide!
Elections aren’t just about national headlines; they’re about the issues that impact your daily life. From local school boards and city councils to state legislators and judges, the people elected in local races shape policies that directly affect your community, your schools, your roads, and even your taxes. That’s why it’s essential to stay informed and make educated choices when casting your vote.
We know that researching candidates can sometimes feel overwhelming, but we’re here to help with school board candidates! We’ve put together a Voter Guide to provide you with the candidates responses to a four important questions.
Why Local Elections Matter More Than You Think
While presidential elections grab most of the attention, local elections often have the biggest impact on your day-to-day life. Here’s why:
- Your Community, Your Future – Local officials make decisions on public safety, housing, education, and infrastructure, shaping the quality of life where you live AND the COST.
- Every Vote Carries More Weight – Local elections often see lower voter turnout, meaning your vote has a greater impact compared to national elections.
- Policies That Affect You Directly – From zoning laws to public school funding, many decisions that influence your daily life and money are made at the local level.
2025 Christian County School District/School Board Election
Election Date: Tuesday, April 8
Polling Hours: 6 AM – 7 PM
SEE WHERE YOUR CANDIDATES STAND ON THESE IMPORTANT ISSUES.
Questions were asked using email addresses provided by the school for the candidates. An ample opportunity was given to provide a “YES” or “NO” response to each question:
- Do you support separating students in sports competitions, locker rooms, and bathrooms by biological sex rather than gender identity?
- Do you believe that parents should have access and ultimate authority over what their children are taught in public schools?
- Do you support enforcing disciplinary consequences for student misbehavior to protect the safety of teachers and students?
- Do you believe public schools should be financially accountable and transparent to taxpayers for the use of taxpayer funds in public schools?
Candidate Responses to Survey by School District
Billings – R-IV
Gary Verch – No Response
Jim Gearing – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Jesse Stovall – No Response
Matt Coats – No Response
Todd Groves – No Response
Richard Buckly – No Response
Chadwick R-I
Travis Bilyeu – No Response
Jim Fisher – No Response
Benjamin Lewis – No Response
Nixa Public Schools
Bridget Bidinger – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Jonathan Lindsay – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Ashtyn Fischer – No Response
Timothy McKnight – No Response
Ozark – R-VI
Wade Wheeler – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Sarah Orr – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Rae-Ann Wade – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Clever R-V
Julie Powell – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Coy Burton – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Bobby Clinton – No Response
Spokane R-VII
Emily Christenson – No Response
Benaiah Snider – No Response
Paula Bishop – No Response
Rachael Stuart – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Sarah Rhoades – Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes
Responses received that did not clearly designate “YES” or “NO” answers are represented by an asterisk () to avoid incorrect interpretation or error in translation.*
Research & Share: Help Inform Your Community!
Being an informed voter is powerful, and sharing that knowledge makes a difference. Here’s how you can help:
✔ Review the Voter Guide – Use our guide to learn the candidates stance on four issues
✔ Encourage Others to Research – Share the guide with family, friends, and neighbors so they can make informed choices too.
✔ Get Involved – Attend candidate forums, ask questions, and engage in discussions about the issues that matter most to you. Spokane School Board Candidate Forum; Friday, 4/4/25, 6PM, Darla’s Cakery, 200 Highlandville RD, Highlandville, MO 65669
✔ Vote & Remind Others – Mark your calendar for Tuesday, April 8th and help spread the word of reminding citizens to vote!
IMPORTANT: Residents living outside the city limits are able and encouraged to vote for candidates within their school district.
Survey results are provided by We the People Christian County for educational purposes.
Local elections are where real change starts. Make sure your voice is heard—research your candidates, use the Voter Guide, and encourage others to do the same. Together, we can create a stronger, more informed community. #GetInformed #VoteLocal #YourVoiceMatters
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