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BOARD OF EDUCATION

Meet the Board

Welcome to the Hickman Mills C-1 School District's Board of Directors page. Our dedicated board members are committed to serving our community, advocating for students, and ensuring the continued success of our district. 
 
For inquiries or to get in touch with our board members, please email our.board@hickmanmills.org
 
 
Bonnaye Mims, President
 

Bonnaye Mims brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to education to her role as a member of the Hickman Mills C-1 School Board. With a background in the Missouri Department of Mental Health forensic services, Mims has dedicated her career to supporting the well-being of children and families. Her extensive involvement in governance includes serving as a former board member for the Hickman Mills School District and as a Missouri state representative for District 27. Mims' dedication to education and public service extends to her current roles as a board member of the Hickman Mills Educational Foundation and as an alderwoman for the city of Raytown, Missouri. Her leadership, coupled with her advocacy for equitable access to resources and opportunities, makes her a valuable asset to the board and a champion for the students and families of the Hickman Mills community.

 


 
Byron Townsend, Vice President
 

Byron Townsend, Director, is deeply rooted in the HMC-1 community, having graduated from Kansas City East High School. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Agribusiness from Northwest Missouri State University and has been actively involved in community organizations for over 25 years. Byron's familial connection to the district, coupled with his extensive community involvement, informs his dedication to serving the needs of students and families.

 
 
 
 
Vanessa Claborn, Director
 
A smiling woman with curly dark hair wearing a black patterned jacket against a plain white background.

Vanessa Claborn is a dedicated member of the Hickman Mills C-1 School District Board of Education, bringing over 30 years of experience in information technology from her tenure with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. A lifelong resident of the district, she has two children who graduated from Hickman Mills schools and a grandchild currently enrolled. Vanessa has also contributed to the community as a volunteer teacher’s aide for five years and has operated a custom graphics business since 2006. Her priorities include restoring full district accreditation, enhancing transparency in budgeting, and promoting safe and supportive learning environments for all students.

 
 

 
Ann E. Coleman, Director
 
The image shows a middle-aged woman with curly brown hair wearing a white headband and a black jacket against a plain white background.

Ann E. Coleman brings 40 years of experience in education to her role as Director. With a background in teaching elementary and special education classes, Ann is deeply passionate about advocating for children's education. She holds a Bachelor's of Arts and a Master’s Degree in Elementary and Special Education from Avila University. Ann's dedication to collaboration and community involvement drives her commitment to advancing our district.

 
 
 

 
April Cushing, Director
 
HMC-1 Board of Directors Member April Cushing

April Cushing is a proud product of the Hickman Mills community and has spent more than twenty years giving back to the district she calls home. She holds a bachelor’s degree from Central Missouri State University and a master’s degree from Central Michigan University, reflecting her lifelong commitment to learning. April has partnered with numerous local organizations over the years, including her service on the Hickman Mills C-1 School Board. She has also supported neighborhood leadership as the Office Manager for the Ruskin Heights Homes Association and later as President of the Ruskin Hills Homes Association. In every role, April has remained focused on advancing the Hickman Mills community and on supporting student opportunities.

 
 

 
 
Irene C. Kendrick, Director
 

Irene C. Kendrick has been an integral part of the Hickman Mills C-1 (HMC-1) School District community for over 30 years. As both a seasoned human resources professional and a proud alumna of the district, she brings a deep, personal commitment to the success of the community she serves. Irene holds a degree in Human Resources Management and Services from DeVry University.

Since 2020, Irene has served on the HMC-1 Board of Education, including in key leadership roles as Vice President and President of the Board. Her tenure has been marked by a steadfast focus on equity, student achievement, and community engagement.

Beyond her contributions to the school district, Irene remains deeply involved in civic life. She serves on the Grandview Parks and Recreation Commission, supports local community development initiatives, and is an active member of the HMC-1 PTA. Irene also serves as an Alderwoman on the Grandview Board of Aldermen, further demonstrating her unwavering commitment to public service and community leadership.

 
 

 
Clifford Ragan III, Director
 
A smiling middle-aged man with a gray beard wearing a navy blue pinstriped suit and a light-colored shirt with a patterned tie.

Clifford Ragan III is a proud parent and longtime advocate for the Hickman Mills C-1 School District. A former board member, he served from 2017 to 2020, including time as vice president. With a deep commitment to student success, Mr. Ragan has focused on academic achievement, strong leadership, and equity in education. His passion for public service continues to inspire his support for the district and its families.