Voters in the West Plains R-7 School District have returned a veteran face to the school board and added a newcomer, while incumbent board vice president Reid Grigsby secured another term.
In a five-way race for three available seats, Grigsby led the pack with 669 votes. He is joined by Jim Thompson, who claimed 644 votes, and Jim Laughary, with 607 votes.
The trio defeated incumbent Jodi Purgason, 462 votes, and first-time challenger Ashton Atlas, 359 votes.
Thompson returns to the board after a 36-year tenure that was interrupted in 2024, when he was defeated by only two votes, while Laughary begins his first term.
In addition to Purgason’s seat, one other was left open: as Christina Silvey-Coleman, a board member since 2017, opted not to run for reelection.
CANDIDATES REACT
"I am truly honored that the patrons of West Plains R-7 have entrusted me with another term," Grigsby said. “I remain committed to working diligently to help make West Plains R‑7 the benchmark district in the state of Missouri.”
Thompson expressed his appreciation for the return to service. “I’m honored to be back on the board and appreciate the support of district patrons,” he said. “I’ll do my utmost to take care of kids.”
Newcomer Laughary also expressed gratitude for the outcome. “I am so thankful for the trust of the community in selecting me to serve on the board,” he said. “I am looking forward to helping continue the tradition of Zizzer pride and excellence.”
Atlas said she was gratfeful for the experience and expressed pride in the community’s engagement.
“Seeing so many people — especially first-time voters — show up and participate was inspiring,” Atlas said. “Change begins at the local level, and I hope our community continues to stay engaged, have meaningful conversations and show up for one another.”
Atlas offered her congratulations to the winning candidates, adding, “I have confidence they will serve our district well.”
The Quill emailed a request for comment to Purgason; as of press time, no response had been received.
CITY COUNCIL
In the West Plains City Council race, Crockett Oaks III ran unopposed and will serve a four-year term. He fills the seat vacated by Mayor Pro-Tem Jessica Nease, who did not seek reelection.
