Wichita Public Schools Seeks to Fill Board of Education Vacancy

The school board has an open at-large member position following the death of Melody McCray-Miller.

Apr. 15, 2026 at 10:05pm

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An abstract, out-of-focus photograph in soft, warm tones depicting a group of people gathered outside a school building, conveying a sense of community and connection.The new at-large member of the Wichita Public Schools Board of Education will need to balance the diverse needs and perspectives of the entire school community.Wichita Today

Wichita Public Schools is seeking applicants to fill a vacancy on its Board of Education after the recent passing of Melody McCray-Miller, who was the first African American woman to represent the county's fourth district. The open at-large member position is not a paid role, but the district says it's an important role to fill. Applicants must be 18 years old, live within district boundaries, and be registered voters in Sedgwick County.

Why it matters

The Wichita Public Schools Board of Education plays a crucial role in setting policies and priorities for the district, which serves over 50,000 students. Filling this vacancy will ensure the board has full representation and can continue to make decisions that balance the needs of students, staff, and the broader community.

The details

To apply for the open at-large position, interested individuals must submit a letter of interest along with three letters of reference either by mail or in person to the board clerk. The selected applicant will serve out the remainder of McCray-Miller's term, which runs through the end of 2027. School board president Stan Reeser said they are looking for a 'team player' who can balance the priorities of the various groups that interact with the school district.

  • Melody McCray-Miller passed away earlier this month, creating the vacancy.
  • The application deadline is one week from now.

The players

Melody McCray-Miller

The first African American woman to represent the county's fourth district on the Wichita Public Schools Board of Education, who passed away recently.

Stan Reeser

The president of the Wichita Public Schools Board of Education, who is overseeing the process to fill the vacant at-large member position.

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What they’re saying

“We are driven by people. By students and by our staff, our support staff and then our parents. So you have to take a lot of groups together and come up with the best decision you can.”

— Stan Reeser, School Board President

What’s next

The school board will review applications and appoint a new at-large member to serve out the remainder of McCray-Miller's term, which ends on December 31, 2027.

The takeaway

Filling this open school board position is crucial for ensuring the Wichita Public Schools district continues to have diverse perspectives and representation as it makes decisions impacting tens of thousands of students, staff, and families.