Francis Howell School Board {_getChooseLabel(this.selections.length)}

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  • Candidate picture

    Randy Cook
    (Non)

  • Candidate picture

    Amy Gryder
    (Non)

  • Candidate picture

    Sarah Oelke
    (Non)

  • Candidate picture

    Ashley Sturm
    (Non)

Biographical Information

What are your top three priorities for the district?

Share any experience in education or within the district?

Age 42
Campaign website http://RandyCook.com
Highest Post-secondary education B.S., Southern Illinois University-Edwardsville, civil engineering
Public elected offices held Francis Howell School Board, 2022-present
Incumbent? Yes
1) Safety of students and staff: as a father of two elementary school children, I understand the need for safe schools. 2) Improving academics: Francis Howell is the top performing district in St. Charles County but there is always room for improvement. 3) Acting as a responsible steward of taxpayer funds. I am not afraid to vote no on questionable spending requests.
I currently serve as the vice president of the board. I serve on the policy committee and have authored and adopted several new policies. I sat on the academic advisory committee for two years, learning where there is opportunity for growth. I helped rein in Prop S construction spending and reset our path forward after mishandling prior to my election to the board in 2022.
Age 49
Highest Post-secondary education M.A., St. Louis University, leadership and organizational development
1) Student success: ensuring kids have the resources to graduate ready for college, trade school or the workforce. 2) Teacher support: paying teachers competitively, retaining top talent and restoring professional development opportunities. 3) Restoring community: bringing neighbors back to the table to listen and work together on solving district problems.
As a parent and product leader, I understand preparing students for a global world. My experience driving workplace innovation and managing global teams gives me unique insight into solving problems. I lead with listening, follow data and prioritize collaboration. I'm passionate about equipping students and teachers because quality education builds thriving communities.
Age 48
Campaign website http://Electsarahoelke.com
Highest Post-secondary education M.A., University of Missouri-St. Louis, education psychology
Public elected offices held None
Incumbent? No
Unlock the future of education, academic excellence and student-focused community.
I am currently a middle school teacher in another school district.
Age 38
Campaign website http://votesturm.com
Highest Post-secondary education B.J., University of Missouri-Columbia, journalism
Responsible budgeting: transparent spending focused on students and teachers, without raising taxes. Preparing future-ready students: maintaining top benchmark scores and improving proficiency so graduates are ready for college, trade school, the military or the workforce. Supporting teachers, engaging parents: advocating for teacher resources and keeping parents involved.
As a parent of three students in Francis Howell, I have a direct stake in the district’s success. I bring experience as a business leader managing budgets and strategic initiatives, ensuring financial accountability and efficiency. I am committed to transparency and responsible decision-making so we can keep the focus on the students where it belongs.