Four candidates file for KM election

Four candidates have filed to run for the open Kasson-Mantorville School Board seat, according to Superintendent Beth Giese.
The four candidates are Sarah Stender, Jerrod Kappers, Denise Heidt, and Albert Brand.
This winter, just months after being re-elected, Amy Olson resigned from her position, which left her seat open.
The school board selected former school board member Angie Richard to fill the temporary vacancy, after a contentious discussion over whether the seat should go to Patrick Walsh. He ran unsuccessfully in the 2024 election.
Though split, the board ultimately agreed to abide by School Board Chair Mark Torkelson’s recommendation to fill the seat.
Torkelson ultimately picked Richards, based on her prior experience and issues facing the school district, including the need to select a new superintendent following the abrupt resignation of Ted Ihns, months into a three-year contract.
Prior to being selected for the temporary vacancy, Richards vowed to not run in the special election.
As part of the process, the school board also heard from at least nine former school board members who all signed a letter recommending Richards for the temporary seat.
The special election is set for Nov. 4.