Moniteau DME

CHERRY TWP — Moniteau School Board’s reorganization meeting on Wednesday saw newcomer Travis Beachem sworn in as a board member, alongside Brittney Beachem-Larimore, Mark DeMatteis and Kathy McBride, who retained seats on the board.

“I’m excited,” Beachem said. “I’ve had a lot of time to think about it, so I think I’m ready to go.”

McBride, who had previously served on a 2-year seat after being appointed, resigned her position before being sworn to a 4-year seat.

Todd Minnear, a school board candidate who received more votes than any other candidate in the November general election, did not accept a seat on the school board, board president Michael Panza said. Minnear had announced plans to withdraw from the race before Election Day. He was not present Wednesday evening.

Leaving the school board are Jennifer Rottman, Matthew Zietz and Michael Baptiste.

Panza will enter his fifth year as board president after the school board voted 5 -1 to reelect him.

“I’m very humbled that my colleagues, you know, would still want me in this position, and I look forward to serving the board and the community at large,” Panza said after the meeting.

The board unanimously elected Linda Dillaman as vice president.

According to Panza, three 2-year seats remain on the board.

Community members interested in those seats are invited to email letters of interest to superintendent Aubrie Schnelle no later than Dec. 15. Interviews will be held Dec. 18.