CHERRY TWP — Two women who appeared on the ballot in the May 16 primary election were appointed to fill vacant positions on the Moniteau School District board of directors at a special meeting Monday night, July 10.

Four candiates were interviewed by the board: Brittney Larimore, Kathy McBride, Travis Beachem and Christopher Stamm.

Larimore was appointed unanimously to fill the seat formerly held by Randy Armagost, a term expected to run through December.

McBride will take the seat of Bryan Sack, whose term will not expire until December 2025. Both were sworn in after the votes.

“I think we’re very fortunate to have people of this quality who would like to participate in framing and shaping the youth we have,” said board president Michael Panza, who thanked all of the candidates for their interest and time.

“I feel mixed emotions,” Larimore said of her appointment. “I’m certainly excited; I feel a little bit nervous, but ready for the duties that are directly ahead of me.

“I know that I need to educate myself,” she added. “I want to come in knowing the past meeting minutes, what’s been addressed lately, and be ready to be an active team member of the board.”

McBride, who previously served on the board for 12 years, said she’s excited to be back.

“I approach this like I’m going to sit back; I’m going to listen,” McBride said, “I have a lot of information to read up on.

“It hasn’t been that long, but it’s been long enough that things have changed and evolved. I have a lot of catching up to do, and I’m certainly willing to ... soak it in and see where everybody’s at; then hit the ground running after that.”

Larimore and McBride are expected to assume their duties by the next meeting, which is currently scheduled for Aug. 14. The July 17 meeting has been canceled, according to a notice posted on the district’s website.

Brittney Larimore

Kathy McBride