Following interviews held June 15, the Hart Public School Board of Education appointed Jordan Walsworth of Hart to fill the vacancy left by former board member Chad Coker, who, after 13 years of service, had decided to resign in May. Walsworth will serve as interim board member until December 2026, when Coker’s term would have ended.
Four other candidates were also interviewed and considered for the open seat: Heather Hallack, Kaleb Klotz, Ashley Shafer and Joy Stuckey.
“We had multiple qualified candidates apply, and I’m grateful to each one for expressing an interest in serving Hart Public Schools,” said HPS Board President Jeff Schaner. “Mr. Walsworth will bring his experience of serving on multiple boards, representing and considering various perspectives.”
Three other school board seats, currently held by Andy Carter, Kayla Dennert and Irma Hinojosa will be up for election Nov. 3, 2026 as well. Those interested in running for one of the four 4-year board member terms, to begin Jan. 1, 2027, will need to contact the Oceana County Clerk’s office by Tuesday, July 21, 2026, if they wish to be listed on the Nov. 3, 2026 ballot.
Board members Mike Barefoot, Jeff Schaner and Steve Riley terms will run through December 31, 2028.
“We are excited to have Mr. Walsworth on our board and look forward to the contributions he will bring to our district,” said Hart Public Schools Executive Assistant of Administrative Affairs Kelli Campagna.
