Fond du Lac school board candidates share priorities in April 7 race

Katie Moder, Antonio Godfrey Sr. and Luke Tranel are vying for two open seats on the Fond du Lac School District Board.

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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The Fond du Lac School District Board of Educators has two open seats for the April 7 election, with three candidates on the ballot: incumbent Katie Moder, Antonio Godfrey Sr. and Luke Tranel. The candidates shared their top three priorities if elected, which include supporting student achievement, navigating financial challenges, and building community connections.

Why it matters

The Fond du Lac School Board plays a crucial role in shaping the district's policies, budgets, and overall direction. The outcome of this election will impact the district's ability to address pressing issues like student success, financial sustainability, and community engagement.

The details

Moder, the current board president, is focused on maintaining student achievement, addressing the district's financial difficulties, and ensuring transparent decision-making. Godfrey, who was recently appointed to the board, prioritizes changing outcomes for all children, student safety, and employee engagement. Tranel, a special education teacher, wants to guide the district through financial challenges, retain high-quality teachers and students, and strengthen the connection between the district and the community.

  • The Fond du Lac School District Board of Educators has two open seats for the April 7, 2026 election.
  • Godfrey was appointed to the board on March 12, 2026 to fill a vacancy left by member Tom Oliver's resignation.

The players

Katie Moder

Incumbent school board member and current board president. She has over three years of experience on the Fond du Lac School Board and previous experience on the boards of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Fond du Lac, Fond du Lac Children's Museum, and Comprehensive Service Integration.

Antonio Godfrey Sr.

Appointed to the Fond du Lac School Board in June 2020 and elected in April 2022. He is currently the Fond du Lac-area manager for A-Z Vapor, Inc. and is working towards his High School Equivalency Diploma (HSED).

Luke Tranel

A special education teacher running for the Fond du Lac School Board for the first time. He holds a master's degree in education.

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What they’re saying

“First and foremost, student achievement and safety must remain at the forefront of our work.”

— Katie Moder, Incumbent school board member and current board president (fdlreporter.com)

“My top priorities will always be to continue changing outcomes for all children. That drives me and gives me purpose. I speak up and fight for all children. I don't pick and choose who I fight for because they all deserve to have their voices heard.”

— Antonio Godfrey Sr., Appointed and elected school board member (fdlreporter.com)

“If elected, I want to first focus on helping guide the district through the challenges of addressing the financial concerns that we are facing, much like many other school districts in Wisconsin.”

— Luke Tranel, Special education teacher and school board candidate (fdlreporter.com)

What’s next

The Fond du Lac School District Board of Educators election will take place on April 7, 2026. Voters will have the opportunity to cast their ballots for the two open seats.

The takeaway

The Fond du Lac School Board election highlights the importance of local education governance, as the candidates' priorities reflect the district's need to balance student success, financial sustainability, and community engagement. Voters will play a crucial role in shaping the future direction of the Fond du Lac School District.