Voters have three candidates to choose from Tuesday for the Dexter Board of Education

Dexter R-XI voters have three candidates to choose from in the Tuesday election, which will fill two seats on the Board of Education.

Those selected will serve three-year terms.

Candidates Aaron Mathis, Preston Clark and Taylor Joyner were asked the same series of question and their information appears in ballot order. Mathis is currently finishing his first three-year term with the board.

Mathis

Age: 38

Occupation: Mortician, Mathis Funeral Homes

Education: Associate of Applied Science from Forest Park Community College

Current affiliations: First Baptist Church Board of Trustees, Dexter Lions Club secretary, president of the Dexter Community Regional Healthcare Foundation, public address announcer for Dexter Bearcats football and basketball teams.

Mathis, an incumbent, said he is running for re-election because he is passionate about community decision-making.

“I’m running for school board because I like to be in the room when a decision is being made that will affect my children’s education, and will affect the community I live and work in,” he elaborated.

Mathis is married and has three children in school. He described himself as accessible and is in the school buildings frequently. Mathis expounded he is verbal, asks questions, and compares ideas with other districts. In three years, he stated he has only missed one board meeting.

“The biggest challenge facing the district is undoubtedly the retainment and recruitment of quality teachers and staff,” Mathis asserted.

Attempting to raise teachers’ pay, he has reached out to local representatives and senators. Mathis observes a lack of available prospective teachers to go around between the districts in Southeast Missouri.

“I think if you are going to serve on the school board, you owe it to the taxpayers, teachers, kids to speak up during meetings, and ask questions,” he affirmed.

Mathis encourages healthy debate and discussion for members of the board. He said he thinks about the school in the same way as a successful business.

According to Mathis, successful enterprises have these three things in common: “Great leadership, great employees and great communication.”

He promises to push the Dexter School District to improve these qualities.

Clark

Age: 39

Occupation: Owner of Bootheel Tool and Machine, LLC.

Education: Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the University of Missouri

Clark, 39, was born and raised in Dexter. He attended Dexter public schools from kindergarten through high school. “Many of my favorite memories come from my involvement in DHS clubs and activities including football, basketball and golf,” Clark recalled.

He went on to study mechanical engineering at the University of Missouri. Clark owns Bootheel Tool and Machine, LLC.

“I enjoy my job and take pride in knowing we provide jobs and contribute to our community when possible,” he affirmed.

Clark lives in Dexter with his wife, Elizabeth Clark, and three children, Carson, Kellen and Brody. All of his children attend Dexter public schools. His mother and sister have both worked in the school system. Clark emphasized his respect for those who work hard to ensure a good education for those in the district. He promises to make good decisions and represent the community if elected.

Joyner

Age: 35

Occupation: Sales management at Greenway Equipment, Inc.

Education: Bachelor of Science in mechanical engineering from the University of Arkansas (2011), Dexter High School (2007).

Joyner, 35, is married with three out of four children enrolled in Dexter schools. He said his family is heavily invested in the district. Joyner’s mother is a retired middle school math teacher and continues to fill in as a substitute teacher regularly.

Joyner recalls playing multiple sports at Dexter High and values the lessons he learned.

“While great athletic programs can bring brief moments of excitement and energy, the educators and administrators are what can set a school system apart long term,” he expounded.

Joyner’s highest priorities are the retention of quality educators and investing in an innovative curriculum.