Wayne Baumhoer, 64, a lifelong Folk area resident, said his long-standing ties to the community and decades of service to the district shape his approach as a candidate hoping to return to the Fatima R-3 School Board in the April 7 election.
“I’ve been here all my life,” Baumhoer said, noting he is a lifelong farmer and has spent 30 years driving a school bus for the district. He also has two grandchildren currently attending Fatima.
He said his decision to run comes from a desire to continue supporting the district, particularly during a time of transition. “I’m excited to work with the new administration,” Baumhoer said.
He cited prior experience as a board member as a key qualification, along with his long tenure working directly with students through his role as a bus driver.
He identified the district’s administrative leadership as a current strength.
Baumhoer said financial stability remains a central concern moving forward. “School funding — it seems like a battle every year, depending on what the state does,” he said, adding that budget oversight would be a top priority if elected.
Baumhoer emphasized the importance of ensuring district resources are used appropriately with regard to potential improvements.
He said voters can rely on his experience and familiarity with the district, noting that he remains accessible to community members through his daily presence at the school. “I’m always on my bus in front of the school in the afternoon,” Baumhoer said.