LISBON
Robyn Richey
Biography (where did you go to school, hobbies, job/profession, experience, family):
I grew up on a farm outside of Lone Tree, a small town southeast of Iowa City. After graduating from Lone Tree Community School, I attended Kirkwood Community College and then transferred to the University of Iowa.
I have worked at Hertz Farm Management for going on 13 years and am currently the Office Real Estate Coordinator of our Real Estate department.
Ten years ago, my husband and I made the decision to move to Lisbon so our children could grow up in a small-town environment that reminded us of our own hometowns. We have three children: Emerson (13), Emma (10), and Emelia (8), who are all proud Lisbon Lions!
When our chaotic schedules allow, my family loves camping. I also enjoy volunteering at our church and am quickly approaching the end of my first term on the Lisbon School Board.
Give us your assessment of the district. What is going well; what would you like to see changed?
My husband and I chose to move to Lisbon from Mt. Vernon not only because of the community, but largely because of the school district. We believe in the value of small class sizes, where students have more opportunities for one-on-one interaction with teachers and the chance to build lasting connections with classmates and staff.
Over the past four years on the school board, I’ve seen firsthand the challenges and the incredible progress we’ve made, especially as we continue working to close the learning gaps caused by COVID. Our students and staff have worked so hard, and it’s paying off.
The new additions to our school are exciting signs of that progress. From the expanded CTE (Career and Technical Education) area, to providing Ag classes, FFA, and a gym that supports our athletes, students are now benefiting from more opportunities than ever before. I’m proud of what we’ve accomplished, and I want to keep that momentum going!
I will continue to support our administration and give them the freedom to make the changes needed to move our district forward. Together, we can keep building a school system that prepares every student for success.
Why are you running? Is there a specific issue you plan to champion?
My mantra has always been: you can’t sit on the sidelines and hope someone with your same views will run and be your voice. If you want your perspective represented, you need to be the one speaking.
I’m running for school board because I believe in being an active participant in shaping the future of our schools. I want to ensure that every decision we make puts students first, is fiscally responsible, supports teachers, and reflects the values of our community.
If you are elected, what would you like to see happen during your term of office?
When I first ran for school board, two academic goals were at the top of my list: expanding our CTE program and bringing Life Skills/Home Economics back to Lisbon. I’m proud of the progress we’ve made with our CTE program, and I’m hopeful we’ll get Life Skills across the finish line before the end of my second term.
I want to make sure when our kids walk out those doors and into the real world, they are ready and fully prepared whether they are going off to college, or going straight into the workforce. Making sure each student has fundamental/essential skills like cooking, budgeting, financial literacy so they understand how credit works and how to build it, how to build a savings and how to file taxes will give our graduates confidence as they are entering the next phase in their lives on the best foot possible. While I understand we do briefly cover some of these topics in other courses, a more in-depth, focused study of these essential life skills is invaluable to our students.
Anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
It has been an honor to serve as your voice and representative on the school board. I strive to be an accountable, fair, and unbiased member, always working in the best interest of our students and community. I will continue to reach out, listen actively, and ensure your concerns and ideas are heard. I’m committed to advocating not just for my own children, but for yours as well.
Travis Bagby
I’m proud to be running for a position on the Lisbon School Board. My family and I have lived in the district since 2010, and we’re deeply invested in this community. I’m a graduate of Dunkerton High School and hold an associate’s degree from Kirkwood Community College. My wife Amanda, a Lisbon graduate, and I have two children currently in the Lisbon school system. When I’m not working, you’ll likely find me at the ballfields, cheering on my kids in traveling sports.
Professionally, I serve as the Public Works Director for the City of Lisbon, where I manage city operations under tight budgets and within strict state guidelines. This experience has taught me how to do more with less — a mindset I believe is valuable when it comes to supporting our schools in a fiscally responsible way.
What drives me to run is my belief in the direction our district is heading — especially the growth of the Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. I’d like to see continued expansion of programs that prepare students with real-world skills, trade readiness, and life preparedness, no matter the path they choose after graduation.
I’m committed to keeping Lisbon schools strong, adaptive, and a place all our kids can thrive in. I want to help ensure the school continues to grow in the right direction as it has and continue to be proud to say my kids are Lisbon Lions.
MOUNT VERNON
Mehrdad Zarifkar
Biography (where did you go to school, hobbies, job/profession, experience, family):
I moved to Iowa in 2005 for college, received my bachelors degree from Cornell College in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Worked in Biotech for a few years before starting Aviana Aircraft, an aircraft detailing company. I went back to school 2 year ago, pursuing a J.D. at the University of Iowa College of Law (expected May 2026), I currently work for Foxtrot Aviation Services as director of process development. I have been active on the Mount Vernon Fire Department for 20 years, and am a board member of the Mount Vernon Volunteer Firefighters Association (our non-profit arm). I am married, and we have a 6th grader in the school district.
Give us your assessment of the district. What is going well; what would you like to see changed?
As someone not currently on the board, I am hesitant to assess the district. My outsider perspective is that it is generally running well. Our new superintendent is likely working down a checklist of things he would like to change, and it appears the board is supportive of his efforts. I’d like to encourage the district to up its communications and marketing, and possibly consider standardizing teacher-parent communication platforms (rather than different apps each grade). I feel like we need to continually evaluate the morning traffic situation as well to ensure we are as safe and efficient as possible.
Why are you running? Is there a specific issue you plan to champion?
I believe the position is more about steady governance, than pushing specific issues. With that understanding, I believe I can be a meaningful contributor to the board given my legal and business background, along with strong community roots. In addition, having worked in biotech and labor type of jobs, I have an appreciation for the value of each. Being a student myself now, I am more aware of what higher education looks like, and how we can better prepare our students.
If you are elected, what would you like to see happen during your term of office?
I’d like to get a strong understanding of how the district works, while earning the trust of staff to ensure we have strong communication.
Rick Elliott
I grew up on a farm and graduated from La Porte City High School, a school and community comparable to Mount Vernon in the 1950s and 1960s. I graduated from Iowa State University in 1971 and taught school at North Linn and Linn County Stanwood in the 70s. For nearly 30 years, I was a coach in the Mount Vernon District. My wife, Trude, and I have lived in Mount Vernon more than 50 years, raising our three sons, Jerry, Patrick and Michael, who all benefitted greatly from their education here in the Mount Vernon Community Schools. I owned and operated Mount Vernon Construction for 40 years, retiring five years ago. Trude and I have managed First Street Community Center for the past 15 years. You might say in describing my life, Mount Vernon comes up often.
I have had the privilege these past 10 years of serving on the Mount Vernon School Board with some outstanding community members. I have also had the honor of working with two tremendous superintendents, Greg Batenhorst and now Matt Leeman. Both of whom have provided critical leadership during trying times.
Challenges for the district include attracting and retaining the best teachers, coaches and staff. Dealing with affordable housing shortage in Mount Vernon, lack of affordable day care, threats to our Free Speech constitutional guarantees. And trying to manage Mount Vernon’s largest community economic enterprise, the Mount Vernon Community school District, with ever decreasing state support.
Here in Mount Vernon we work hard to give our students the best teachers, the best curriculum, the best programs, the best facilities, in short, the best education possible. We are doing well here in Mount Vernon Community School District. Our open enrollment numbers, the success of our graduates, the prosperity of our town are all indication we are on the right path. I want to help keep us on that path.
Maggie Hartzler
Biography (where did you go to school, hobbies, job/profession, experience, family):
I’m Maggie Hartzler, and I’m a mother to three students in the district. My husband, Jon, and I chose to move here because we wanted our kids to grow up in a community and school system that values learning, connection, and belonging.
I’m also a licensed therapist and have worked with children and families for nearly two decades at a local non-profit in Cedar Rapids, where I currently serve as Clinical Services Director. I earned my Master’s in Social Work from St. Ambrose University and hold Bachelor’s degrees in Psychology and Philosophy from Coe College.
My career has been dedicated to helping kids and systems thrive – building resilience, creating efficiencies, and strengthening the environments that help children and families reach their full potential. I’ve also worked as a school-based therapist, which gives me a deep understanding of how education, emotional wellness, and family partnership all work together to support student success.
Outside of work, I love reading, putting together Lego sets, and searching Goodwill for treasures. I’m grateful every day for a community that fits our family so well – one where our kids can be seen, supported, and celebrated for who they are.
Give us your assessment of the district. What is going well; what would you like to see changed?
Mount Vernon is an incredible district. It’s a place where both kids and adults can discover and pursue their passions – from the arts and academics to athletics and service. As someone who’s spent her career focused on child development and emotional wellness, I’m deeply impressed by how Mount Vernon creates opportunities for students to build connection, confidence, and belonging.
I’ve seen firsthand how educators here recognize the unique strengths of each student and tailor their learning opportunities. My three children are very different learners, yet each is supported and challenged in ways that bring out their best. That personalized, relationship-based approach is what makes this district exceptional.
Last year, I participated in the School Improvement Advisory Committee and was struck by the passion and dedication of our educators and leaders. In a world that’s ever-changing, I believe our district’s continued success will depend on staying agile, collaborative, and open to innovation, while also ensuring our teachers and staff have the support they need to do their best work.
Why are you running? Is there a specific issue you plan to champion?
Deciding to run wasn’t something I took lightly. As a working mom of three, with a husband who works long hours, time is precious. But when I learned there was an open seat and no third candidate on the ballot, it felt important to step forward.
I’m running because I care deeply about this community and the role schools play in shaping it. My goal is simply to help ensure Mount Vernon remains a place where every child feels seen, supported, and inspired to learn. As a licensed therapist and leader, I bring a unique perspective on whole-child education, mental health, and system-level problem-solving.
I’m passionate about finding ways to strengthen what already works in our district – improving communication, enhancing efficiency, and ensuring our systems continue to serve students, staff, and families well into the future. If there is one “issue” I champion, it’s this: that we ensure Mount Vernon remains a district families are proud to call home – a place where students thrive both academically and emotionally.
If you are elected, what would you like to see happen during your term of office?
My hope for the next few years is to build on the incredible foundation our district already has. Families, including mine, move here for the schools, and that’s a testament to the district’s reputation for excellence and care. If elected, I want to help ensure that reputation continues through thoughtful growth, open communication, and forward-thinking collaboration. I’d like to see continued investment in teacher support, student wellness, and community partnerships that help us innovate while staying true to our values.
Ultimately, I want to listen, learn, and lead alongside others, making sure our decisions reflect both data and heart.
Anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
Since I’m asking for a write-in vote, please be sure to not only write in “Maggie Hartzler” but also fill in the oval next to my name so your vote is counted!
I believe in the power of community and in the difference that thoughtful, compassionate leadership can make. Thank you, Mount Vernon, for caring about our schools, our kids, and our future!
Kara Stineman
Biography (where did you go to school, hobbies, job/profession, experience, family):
I am a lifelong Mount Vernon resident and a proud graduate of the Mount Vernon High School Class of 2007. My roots in this community run deep, and I’m passionate about giving back to the school district that played such an important role in shaping who I am today.
After high school, I earned my Associate Degree in Nursing from Kirkwood Community College, followed by both my Bachelor’s and Master’s degree in Nursing Education from Mount Mercy University. My professional journey has taken me through a wide range of nursing roles including telemetry, labor and delivery, pediatrics, and management.
Currently, I serve as the Associate Dean of Nursing at Kirkwood Community College, where I lead a team of nearly 75 full-time and adjunct faculty members. In this role, I’m responsible for strategic planning, faculty development, accreditation, and building partnerships with local hospitals and clinics to secure critical clinical placements for our students. This leadership experience has equipped me with skills in team management, policy implementation, and long-term planning skills that directly translate to effective school board service.
I have been married to my husband Zach for 13 years and we have three daughters who are currently enrolled in the Mount Vernon School District in kindergarten, 3rd grade, and 5th grade. In my free time I enjoy spending time with friends and family, baking, and refinishing furniture.
Give us your assessment of the district. What is going well; what would you like to see changed?
Overall, I believe Mount Vernon is a very strong district, marked by an exceptional curriculum, high-quality teaching, and effective instructional support. Students benefit not only from strong academics but also from a wide range of extracurricular opportunities that reflect and support diverse interests. The district does an outstanding job of fostering student growth and building meaningful relationships, both of which are essential to a well-rounded education. These strengths should continue to be prioritized and supported moving forward.
At the same time, there are opportunities for growth. While our academic programs are solid, I believe we could expand work-based learning and internship opportunities to better prepare students for life beyond high school. I’d also like to see increased engagement in AP and dual enrollment courses, helping students build the confidence and readiness needed to successfully transition into higher education.
Why are you running? Is there a specific issue you plan to champion?
I’m not running with an agenda for sweeping change. I’m running with a deep commitment to support our district and build on the strong foundation that’s already in place. As a parent of three children currently enrolled in Mount Vernon schools, and as a lifelong resident who truly loves this community, I want to do my part to ensure our district continues to grow, thrive, and serve every student well.
In my professional role in higher education, I see firsthand how students transition into life after high school, especially in the wake of the pandemic. These experiences have underscored for me how critical it is to prepare students not just academically, but also socially and emotionally. Supporting the whole student must remain at the center of what we do, and I’m committed to helping our district continue that important work.
If you are elected, what would you like to see happen during your term of office?
If elected, my primary goal during the beginning of my term would be to listen, learn, and understand more deeply the inner workings of our district. While I am incredibly passionate about public education and committed to serving our students, staff, and families, I also recognize the importance of approaching this role with humility and a willingness to grow.
I want to spend time learning from a variety of perspectives including teachers, administrators, families, students, and fellow board members so that the decisions I help make are informed, inclusive, and in the best interest of the entire district. While I may have ideas and areas of interest, I believe responsible leadership begins with understanding the full picture before advocating for change.
Ultimately, I hope to contribute to decisions that support student success, empower educators, and strengthen the district’s connection with the community. I may not have all the answers now, but I am committed to asking the right questions and doing the work to serve with integrity and purpose.
Tim Keegan
Biography (where did you go to school, bobbies, job/profession, experience, family)
My wife Abby and I live just south of Mount Vernon with our two boys, Caleb (17 in 12th grade) and Beau (14 in eighth grade). We moved to Mount Vernon in 2006 when I worked for Cargill as a nutritionist consulting across the Midwest. Since 2009 I’ve been farming and running a small business full time. I am originally from Cedar Rapids and a graduate of Kennedy High School. Upon my graduation from Iowa State University, I was awarded an assistantship at Kansas State University where I completed my master’s degree. I have been a volunteer firefighter and first responder for over 20 years in each of the communities where we lived. I currently serve on the Mount Vernon Fire Department where I serve as a captain and treasurer/secretary of our association. I serve on the finance council of our local church and enjoy spending time as a 4H Volunteer. I’ve had the opportunity to travel in South America via the Global Farmer Network sharing best practices in Sustainable Agriculture.
Give us your assessment of the district. What is going well; what would like to see changed?
One of our biggest strengths within the district is community engagement. I saw the opposite growing up in a much larger district. Our community is very involved with our kids and does a lot to support them. With the growing size of our district, we need to keep focus here. It will also be imperative to ensure we have an attractive program to retain and recruit the best teachers. We need to be conscious that educators can go to a larger district and make more money with better benefits. Educators work in a challenging environment, and to do their best, they need our support – not just compensation, but with expectations and boundaries. We have had some challenging years financially and we will continue to. I think forward budgeting, forecasting, and having long term plans are essential. In the past year, with our new administrative leadership, we have worked on setting goals and an overall direction for the district. The next step is to follow through with the action plans to achieve the goals that have been set. Accountability and transparency will be critical factors to focus on in the next few years.
Why are you running? Is there any issues you plan to champion?
I have been very open as currently serving on the board that I am not an expert in education, but that is where I believe I have added value with an unbiased outside view. One of my goals in the past two years is to improve the transparency with the board and within the school district. I believe the easiest way to do that is through asking questions. My goal is to ensure we are preparing our kids for all options post high school. As a board, I want to continue to evaluate our non-core classes to look for opportunities to expand or improve.
If you are elected, what would you like to see happen during your term of office?
One of the current goals of the board is to be the “School of Choice.” I think that is true for not only our kids, but also our educators. I want to continue to focus on making sure we are doing everything possible to improve the culture within the district. In order to adequately support our educators, expand learning opportunities for kids, and have an engaged community, we must be financially stable. There are a lot of factors out of the districts control when it comes to school finances. I want to make sure we are fluid in our finances to adapt to these unknowns.
Anything else you’d like to share with our readers?
After having the opportunity to serve on the board, I have enjoyed learning and serving the district. I believe school boards should not be political and should operate with one common goal of serving our students and staff. I believe it is healthy to have a board that does not always agree. However, we must have a board that is respectful to everybody and willing to get behind and support the majority vote. I am proud to say that we have operated that way in the past year and my goal is to continue to have those tough conversations as a board but move forward knowing we have the districts best interest in mind. Disagreement can lead to change and if we do not have change then we cannot be better tomorrow. Communication, Respect, and Compromise along with planning are how I can best serve our distract as a board member.
