WESTPHALIA — Nicole Bax, 44, is seeking a seat on the Fatima R-3 School Board in the April 7 election, citing a desire to bring a fresh perspective during a period of leadership transition.

“Fatima has a new superintendent and new high school principal, so I felt that now was an opportune time for new, fresh ideas to be heard and considered,” Bax said.

Bax, who grew up in the Westphalia-Freeburg area, lives near Westphalia and is working to revitalize a family homestead. She and her husband have two daughters who attended Fatima schools.

She has worked for the Missouri State Highway Patrol for 23 years and currently serves as a project manager in the cybersecurity and technology division.

“My time at the Patrol has taught me communication and leadership skills that will serve me well,” said Bax, a graduate of St. Joseph Catholic School and Fatima High School.

Bax has been deeply involved in community initiatives, including founding the “Westphalia Happenings” Facebook page so the community could communicate and come together during the pandemic. “It is now a central part of staying informed about community events and coordination,” Bax added, who helped organize the “Christmas on Main” events from 2020-25.

She also led her daughters’ Girl Scout troops and was the Service Unit leader for the Osage/Maries County Girl Scout Service Unit from 2010-20. 

A fun fact: Bax started the Westphalia tradition of hiding wooden Easter egg signs around town that spell out Happy Easter for everyone to hunt.

Bax described the board’s role as maintaining a shared vision for student success.

“The Fatima school board should be characterized by a strong, shared vision for student achievement,” she said.

Bax identified managing change as the district’s most significant challenge.

“Ushering forward and navigating change is the most important issue,” she said.

Her priorities include student and staff safety, support for special education, and strengthening hands-on learning programs.

Bax said improvements can be made by being involved in critical conversations with other board members and administrators to work toward the goals and vision of the school system. “I am deeply rooted in the community and feel I would be an approachable, logical addition,” she added.