Francis Howell superintendent honors three departing directors; three new directors sworn in

Superintendent Mark Delaney opened the recognition portion of the April 7 reorganization meeting by thanking outgoing Directors Ron Harmon, Jane Puschkar and Mark Ponder for their service to the Francis Howell School District.

Delaney credited the directors with helping to launch and implement the district’s five-year strategic plan, steward bond-funded projects that upgraded facilities and safety, supporting the creation of a director of safety and security role, and addressing staff compensation issues. "You helped launch and implement an ambitious five-year strategic plan to keep Francis Howell as one of the top-performing districts in the state," Delaney said.

Delaney offered brief, individualized remarks for each departing member, noting Harmon’s focus on strategic stewardship; Puschkar’s policy and hiring committee work; and Ponder’s attention to students and student board representatives. The board gave applause and took a short recess to allow personal good-byes.

After reconvening, the board administered the statutory oath of office to the three newly elected directors. Each repeated the oath affirming support for the U.S. and Missouri constitutions and pledging to "faithfully and impartially discharge the duties of school board director" for the Francis Howell School District. Sarah Dillard, Kevin McGuire and Jason Adams were sworn in and took their seats at the dais.

Outgoing Director Mark Ponder offered personal remarks to the board, including a warning to incoming members about the demands of board service: "Be careful what you wish for," he said, and urged new members to balance public service with family commitments.

The board thanked the departing directors for their service and welcomed the newly sworn directors.