Three New Members Join Jefferson City School Board

Outgoing board members honored for years of service as district looks to the future

Apr. 17, 2026 at 11:22am

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A brightly colored, high-contrast silkscreen print of a single, iconic school supply object repeated in a tight grid pattern, conceptually representing the transition of leadership on the Jefferson City School Board.The changing of the guard on the Jefferson City School Board brings new energy and perspectives to guide the district's future.Jefferson City Today

The monthly board meeting for the Jefferson City School District saw a changing of the guard, as three new members - Gretchen Duckworth, Kris Scheperle, and Michelle Rodemeyer - were sworn in after winning election on April 7. They will serve three-year terms, replacing outgoing members Brad Bates, Suzanne Luther, and Scott Hovis, who were thanked for their years of dedication to the district.

Why it matters

The Jefferson City School Board plays a crucial role in shaping the direction and policies of the district, which serves thousands of students. The transition to new leadership comes at an important time, as the district continues renovations and initiatives like the career ladder program for teachers.

The details

The new board members - Duckworth, Scheperle, and Rodemeyer - were sworn in at the meeting, which was attended by friends and family. The board also selected leadership roles for the 2026-27 school year, with Anne Bloemke-Warren returning as president, Ken Hussey as vice president, and Stephanie Sappenfield as secretary. Carlos Graham was chosen as the new treasurer, replacing the outgoing Brad Bates.

  • The monthly board meeting took place on Thursday evening, April 17, 2026.
  • The new board members were sworn in after winning election on April 7, 2026.
  • The board will serve three-year terms and be up for re-election in 2029.

The players

Gretchen Duckworth

One of the three new board members sworn in, she will serve a three-year term.

Kris Scheperle

One of the three new board members sworn in, he will serve a three-year term.

Michelle Rodemeyer

One of the three new board members sworn in, she will serve a three-year term.

Anne Bloemke-Warren

Nominated and accepted to return as the board president for the 2026-27 school year.

Ken Hussey

Chosen to remain as the board's vice president for the 2026-27 school year.

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What they’re saying

“He loves when we win, hates when we lose. Doesn't want us to lose too often.”

— Bryan McGraw, Superintendent

“Her claim to fame is she taught NBA player O.G. Anunoby, and he described her last summer, when I put him on the spot, as 'cool'.”

— Bryan McGraw, Superintendent

“I didn't really like Scott when we first met, but we have since formed a great friendship and I thank him for his leadership.”

— Lindsey Rowden, Board Member

What’s next

The new board members will begin their three-year terms, working with the returning leadership to continue the district's initiatives and oversee the completion of facility renovations.

The takeaway

The transition to new school board leadership in Jefferson City comes at a pivotal time, as the district looks to build on recent progress and set a strong course for the future. The outgoing members are praised for their years of service, while the incoming members bring fresh perspectives to help guide the district.