Name: Michael A. Baptiste

Residence: Clay Township

Education: Completing Doctorate in Education in sports marketing. B.S. in environmental studies, M.S.S. in sports management.

Occupation: 15-plus years as successful business owner. I recently sold my business and now focusing on becoming a college professor. Also producing online course curriculum design for the University of Alabama with a focus on learning management system integration within their sports marketing department

Family: Wife, Heather; sons, Brendyn and Austin, and daughter, Ashlyn

QUESTION: Why are you running for office?

BAPTISTE: The worst thing a student can face is a great opportunity and not be prepared. I believe that I can work together with teachers, administrators, and parents to accomplish our mission, communicate our goals, better equip our teachers, and design a measurable plan for their attainment. I also believe it is our obligation as a school board and citizens of the Moniteau School District to prepare our children for the amazing opportunities that lie ahead for them. Nothing is more important than our children.

QUESTION: What do you consider the pressing matters facing your school district and how would you address them?

BAPTISTE: Foremost, to best prepare our students for opportunity we need to be diligent at providing access to the latest technology by incorporating a blended learning management system into the classroom. Additionally, I will strongly push for full-day kindergarten. Our students deserve the very best start on their academic journey. Finally, I am extremely passionate about securing our schools and taking a proactive stance rather than a reactive one. I will advocate for daytime security at both the elementary and the high school.