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Maplewood‑Richmond Heights Board narrows candidates to two finalists, tables appointment
Summary
The Maplewood‑Richmond Heights Board of Education heard presentations from a field of applicants for an unexpired seat, advanced Loretta Colvin and Demetrius Easley as finalists and voted to table the appointment while members seek more information and reflection.
The Maplewood‑Richmond Heights Board of Education on May 1 heard three‑minute statements from a field of applicants seeking to fill an unexpired board seat, advanced Loretta Colvin and Demetrius Easley as the two finalists and then voted to table the appointment to a future meeting.
Colvin, a parent active in district volunteer groups and a co‑treasurer of Keep MRH Strong, emphasized her local experience and endorsement from the MRH NEA. "I'm pleased to have the recommendation of the MRH National Education Association," Colvin told the board, noting past service on district initiatives and volunteer leadership that she said would allow a rapid transition into board work.
Easley, a contract lead at Scott Air Force Base and former police officer, framed his candidacy as advocacy for students and staff retention and cited community volunteer work including service with the Missouri Children's Burn Camp. "I have a passion for serving...to be an advocate for children," Easley said.
Other applicants detailed a range of professional and community experience. Rachel Lindsay, a Maplewood and Richmond Heights resident and Saint Louis University history instructor, said the district’s support for arts and special education motivated her application. Kieran Gutting, a longtime district parent and nonprofit board leader, described himself as "a limb" that could bring growth and inclusion to the board. Brad Jackson and Jim Brian (self‑identified) highlighted volunteer service, small‑business and special‑education backgrounds; Dr. Robert Dylan joined by Zoom to describe decades in public education.
Board members described two competing priorities during deliberations: the need for a candidate who can transition quickly and help execute the district's recent initiatives, versus the value of adding demographic and perspective diversity to the body. "We are all identifying as white folks," one board member said, urging broader representation; other members noted Colvin's familiarity with district operations as an advantage in a one‑year interim term.
The board used a ranked selection process — each member submitted top three candidates with points assigned 3‑2‑1 — and the highest two scorers advanced. After announcing Colvin and Easley as the finalists, the board debated whether to decide immediately or seek additional information. A motion to table the appointment to a future meeting was made and seconded and then approved by voice vote (all "Aye").
Board members also noted a procedural deadline: one member said the board has 60 days from acceptance of the resignation to fill the seat, and that if the board does not act the appointment moves to the Saint Louis County Council and county executive. The board discussed the possibility of follow‑up questions or a brief questionnaire for the finalists before making a final choice.
The board did not make a final appointment on May 1. The district will announce next steps and any additional candidate materials before reconvening the appointment process.
