Five candidates filed to be placed on the April 2 election ballot to fill three open seats on the Pattonville Board of Education. There are two three-year and one two-year terms on the ballot, and candidates were able to file for either the two- or three-year term. Those who filed to serve a three-year term on the board are, in order of filing, Crystal Hibbert, incumbent Jeanne Schottmueller and Jan Schweiss. Those who filed to serve the two-year term vacated by Dr. Amanda Lienau are, in order of filing, Rená Simmons and Devon Linhardt. Board members whose terms are expiring are Schottmueller and Brandon Wilkes, who resigned from the board in October. Find out more about each candidate below.
Candidates Filing for the Three-Year Terms
Crystal Hibbert
Crystal Hibbert is an information technology program manager in business intelligence at the Metropolitan St. Louis Sewer District. She has a bachelor’s degree in accounting and marketing and master’s degree in business administration, both from St. Louis University. Hibbert and her husband, Miguel Hibbert, have resided in Bridgeton for five years. They are the parents of a child at Parkwood Elementary School.
Volunteerism/Experience
“I am a results-oriented person, and this shows in my experience with project management, finance and strategic planning. I mentor young people by assisting them with resume writing, employment searches and provide support resources. I volunteer with a Portrait of Graduate, CSIP, Parkwood PTA and in my church.”
Statement of Purpose
“I will advocate for improved student services, diversity and equitable policies and inclusive classrooms. I will proactively collaborate with students, staff and community to improve processes and monitor fiscal commitments. I am dedicated to the mission of public education and hope to serve as your #1Advocate on the school board.”
Jeanne Schottmueller (incumbent)
Jeanne Schottmueller retired from the Special School District (SSD) after 32 years as a paraprofessional. She earned her degree from Lindenwood University. Schottmueller is a 26-year resident of Pattonville and currently resides in St. Ann. She is a Pattonville graduate and the mother of two 2012 Pattonville High School graduates.
Volunteerism/Experience
“President of PTO at Drummond Elementary and PTA at Holman Middle School; also served on the School Improvement Teams at Drummond, Holman and Pattonville High School; vice president of the Football Boosters; service on many district committees; and president of the
Pattonville Board of Education.”
Statement of Purpose
“I believe in the vision and goals of the school district and will continue to hold the district accountable for results. It is important to me to make sure our children are receiving everything possible to become contributing citizens not only in our community, but the world around us.”
Jan Schweiss
Jan Schweiss retired from Pattonville School District after working as a parent educator in early childhood for 24 years. She earned her bachelor’s degree in psychology from the University of Missouri - Columbia and certification as a parent educator in 1991. Schweiss is a 43-year resident of Pattonville. Schweiss and her husband, Ken, are the parents of two Pattonville graduates, one from 2002 and one in 2003.
Volunteerism/Experience
"In addition to my 24 years as a parent educator, I’ve volunteered, chaired committees and held various offices in a variety of organizations, including Rose Acres and Holman PTA, Maryland Heights Parks and Recreation Advisory Commission, Pattonville Education Foundation, KidSmart, Ranken Jordan Pediatric Bridge Hospital and Maryland Heights/Bridgeton Kiwanis."
Statement of Purpose
"In serving as a member, I wish to help make decisions that ensure ALL students succeed to their full potential while being fiscally responsible and communicating with our Pattonville community. I would like to join our board to help guide it, our district and our students for continued success."
Candidates Filing for the Two-Year Term
Rená Simmons
Rená Simmons is a production specialist with RubinBrown LLP. Simmons attended Affton High School. After graduation, she earned a bachelor’s degree from the University of Missouri-St. Louis and a master’s degree from Lindenwood University, both in criminal justice. A 10-year Pattonville resident, Simmons lives in St. Ann. She is the mother of a 2023 Pattonville graduate.
Volunteerism/Experience
"Attending district meetings and being active in the PTO helped me reach the school board. PTO gave me great teamwork skills to assist students succeed. Event planning, parent involvement, and educator cooperation helped me comprehend our school's issues and prospects. I learned about education policies and schools at district meetings."
Statement of Purpose
"To express my strong desire to serve on the Board of Education. Education has affected people and communities in my professional and community activities. I understand our schools, teachers, and students' issues, therefore I'm delighted to engage with board members on fresh education solutions."
Devon Linhardt
Devon Linhardt is a member of the Pattonville High School graduating Class of 2018 and is a life-long Pattonville resident. Following graduation, Linhardt was enrolled in Western Kentucky University where he took courses in elementary education. Currently, Linhardt is the front end lead at the Home Depot located in Bridgeton.
Volunteerism/Experience
“Board Member of the Pattonville Alumni Association. Member of the PHS PTO and Pattonville Portrait of a Graduate committee. Was director of evangelism and outreach at Beautiful Savior Church. Former member of the City of Bridgeton pension commission. Current member of City of Bridgeton street commission.”
Statement of Purpose
“I am committed to upholding traditional American values in our schools. I support teacher advocacy and school safety and believe that education should emphasize critical thinking and academic excellence for every student.”