Four seats up for election on Williston School Board

WILLISTON, N.D. (KUMV) - Starting in July, there’ll only be two members of Williston’s school board who have been there since the 2020 reorganization. With four spots open and only one incumbent running, this is a pivotal moment for the voters to determine the future direction of the school district. Here’s a quick look at the at-large candidates, three of whom voters will choose from.

Jeremy Brenner has 24 years of public education experience, including as the former principal of Wilkinson Elementary. He says he wants to focus on improving teacher retention, staff morale and district reputation. He is endorsed by the Williston Education Association.

Brittany Kilgore was appointed to the board in March after John Kasmer’s death. She’s a former member of the Williston Chamber of Commerce and has a decade of experience in human resources. She says she’d like to serve a full term and improve academic performance and financial transparency. Kilgore is endorsed by the Williston Education Association.

Samuel Johnson is a Williston High School graduate and the middle school football coach. He says his priority is looking into developing stability in the district, especially on the administrative level. Johnson is endorsed by the Williston Education Association.

Diane Schmidt volunteers in the district and says she wants a more avid role in the community. She says she’d like to create a positive image for the school board and a more friendly environment for staff.

Katie Zufelt manages Harlow’s Bus Service and has children in the school district. She says she wants to focus on boundary lines and district financials.

David Rodriguez has nieces and nephews in the district and has lived here for 10 years. He says he wants to mend the relationship between the public and the school board, as well as support its students.

Meanwhile, there’s the rural candidate seat, where former Williams County School District 8 member Dennis Nehring is running unopposed. Annette Sluder is running as a write-in candidate and is endorsed by the teachers’ union.