Fatima R-3 incumbent Joyce Weber, 66, is seeking another term on the school board in the April 7 election, pointing to fiscal responsibility, staff retention, and continued program development as key priorities.
Weber has deep roots in Osage County, having been born and raised in the area before returning after approximately 20 years away.
“I was involved with the hiring of the new administration and would love to continue working with them,” Weber said. “We still have work to do.”
Weber brings a background in education to the board, holding a degree in the field and having previously worked as a teacher and coach in Missouri for six years. She currently serves as an aide at St. Joseph School in Westphalia, working with three grade levels.
“I feel I have a unique skill set to help with great outcomes for Fatima,” she said, adding that one of the district’s strengths lies in its strong community foundation. “We have great roots in Osage County with a wonderful history of sports, band, FFA, and student outcomes. We also have great parental support.”
Weber identified financial stewardship as a top concern for Fatima’s future, along with maintaining quality staff and strengthening key student programs.
“Fiscal responsibilities are first and foremost,” she said. “We’ve been blessed, but we have obstacles coming in the future. Retaining our teachers is critical so we can continue to produce great students.”
She also emphasized the need to strengthen the district’s FFA and music programs to previous levels and expand post-graduation opportunities for students.
“We need to give students as many options as possible after graduation by building relationships with nearby colleges and trade schools,” Weber said.
She noted that her priorities include maintaining a balanced budget while keeping teacher salaries competitive with neighboring schools, as well as reinforcing accountability across all levels of the district.
“Accountability has to start at the top, but it has to involve administration, teachers, and students,” she said.
During her time on the board, Weber said she has remained consistently engaged.
“In the three years I have served, I have attended every meeting,” she said. “I’ve also worked within my community to help resolve issues or at least address them.”
Weber said she remains open to communication with community members and supports making board members accessible to the public.