USD 413 BOE Member Announces Candidacy for Kansas State Board of Education, District 9

GKSBOE Press 6-8-26

Chanute, Kan. – Heather Guernsey, a member and former President of the USD 413 Board of Education, has officially announced her candidacy for the Kansas State Board of Education, District 9.

Guernsey said her decision to run comes from her experience serving local schools and working directly with students, parents, teachers, and administrators at the local level.

“Serving on the local board has given me a firsthand look at both the strengths and challenges facing our schools,” Guernsey said. “I’m running because I believe every child deserves an excellent education. It shouldn’t matter where you live or what your parents can afford; every student deserves the opportunity to discover what they are capable of. Kansas students and parents deserve leaders who will listen, stay focused on education, and work collaboratively to support strong schools in every community.”

A former classroom teacher and longtime advocate for public education, Guernsey said her passion for education is rooted in her belief that strong schools are the foundation of strong communities. She credits educators throughout her own life for helping her recognize her potential and inspiring her commitment to ensuring every Kansas student has the same opportunity.

“At the end of the day, education is about helping students realize their potential,” Guernsey said. “I know firsthand the difference a great teacher can make. A teacher once saw more in me than I saw in myself, and that experience changed the course of my life. Education opens doors, strengthens communities, and gives students the confidence to choose their own future. That’s what I want to fight for on the State Board of Education.”