BizPAC 2021 KCPS School Board Endorsements

The KC BizPAC, a Political Action Committee in collaboration with the Civic Council and Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce, after interviewing and reviewing questionnaires from the school board candidates for the Kanas City Public Schools Board, has endorsed candidates for the April School Board race.

All terms are 4 years (expires in 2025)

Sub-District 5:

Bruce Beatty vs. Kandace Buckner [open seat]
Recommendation: Endorse Kandace Buckner—$1500 contribution

As a former elementary school teacher and instructional designer with the Kansas City Teacher Residency, Kandace brings a deep knowledge of the education field and KCPS. Ms. Buckner’s passion for increasing student achievement by serving on a board that sets ambitious goals and a vision for the district would be a valuable addition to KCPS. Contributions by check: “Kandace Buckner for School Board,” 5413 Paseo Blvd. #1, KCMO 64110. Contributions online: https://secure.actblue.com/donate/kandace-buckner-for-school-board-1

Her opponent, Bruce Beatty, is a retired finance analyst for the City of KCMO, and the committee appreciates very much his longtime service with KCMO and the State of Missouri, and his interest in supporting the development of young people.

At-Large:

Tanesha Ford vs. Pattie Mansur (incumbent)
Motion: Endorse Pattie Mansur—$1500 contribution

KCPS has made demonstrable progress over the past several years, and that improvement is due in no small part to the recent effectiveness and stability of the Board of Education. As a board member first elected in 2014 and chair of the board since 2019, Pattie Mansur has been instrumental in providing this much-needed leadership, and deserves re-election to her board seat. Professionally, Pattie serves as Director of Health Policy & Communications for the REACH Foundation.

Contributions by check: “Committee to Elect Pattie Mansur,” 421 W. 68th St., KCMO, 64113
Contributions online: www.pattiemansurforkcschools.com

Her opponent, Tanesha Ford, executive director of Kauffman Scholars, is an impressive candidate focused on raising student achievement. Her candidacy ensures that voters have an excellent choice in this election.

Sub-District 1:

Rita Cortes (unopposed incumbent)—Endorsement; no contribution

First elected in 2019, Rita brings an intense interest in increasing student achievement to the current KCPS board. As an attorney and the current executive director of the Menorah Heritage
Foundation, Ms. Cortes also demonstrates a keen appreciation of effective governance principles.

Sub-District 3:

Manny Abarca (unopposed incumbent)—Endorsement; no contribution

Manny serves as the Board’s Treasurer, where he plays a pivotal role in leading the annual budget process, a significant responsibility for a board member first elected in 2019. Mr. Abarca’s deep roots in the Kansas City community and role as Congressman Cleaver’s Deputy District Director ensure that his constituents in Northeast KC have an effective voice in the future of the district.