Graddy, Louderman Appointed To School Board

Andrew Graddy and Suzanne Louderman were appointed to the Crawford County R-1 School Board on July 18, filling vacancies created by Ron Collins and Justin Blanton.

Collins tendered his resignation in June due to moving outside of the district. Blanton submitted his resignation on July 3 after taking the position as a bus mechanic with the district.

Both Graddy and Louderman will fill the seats through April 2020 at which time they will be eligible for one-year terms.

Louderman, Graddy and Daniel Tracy were vying for the spots. Louderman was approved by a 5-0 vote, while Graddy was approved by a 3-2 vote.

Members Marty de la Torre and Jason Gobin voted against Graddy.

Each prospective candidate were questioned by board members.

Tracy told the board he has spoken in front of them before and that he felt he could be a benefit to the group. He added that he wanted to see every student have an opportunity to succeed.

Graddy said the previous time commitments kept him from pursuing a position on the board, but the time was right and that he had a vested interest.

Louderman said she has children in the district and that she was excited about the new leadership. As a business owner, she said she was committed to the community and children. Louderman said the children were a reflection of the district.

Gobin asked the candidates what they liked the most about the district and what they felt needed the most work.

Tracy said Bourbon being a small community was both a strength and a weakness, with opinions being formed quickly and people talking.

Graddy agreed, saying that he loved the charm of Bourbon but that people can know too much. He also said Bourbon doesn’t have the same opportunities or budgets as bigger districts.

Louderman said she felt Bourbon doesn’t have the same level of pride that it used to, but there are many positives. She told the board her children love attending school at Bourbon.

Each candidate was asked if they would have conflicts by serving on the board.

Tracy said he would not, while Graddy said there may be meetings he may not attend due to his work schedule. 

Louderman said she would have no conflicts.