October 29, 2021

Following graduation from Westphalia High School, Rita Boydston then went to Emporia State University and graduated with a degree in Education. I began teaching Elementary Language Arts in Greeley for two years. I then began a 27-year teaching career for USD #367 in Osawatomie. My initial teaching position in that district was at the York School on the grounds of the state hospital. I quickly adapted to teaching in an individualized learning environment. I taught those students that were mostly court ordered in to the Substance Abuse program. It was extremely challenging and rewarding. After 13 years at the York School, I was moved to Osawatomie High School where I was the director/teacher for the Alternative High School, another job I thoroughly enjoyed. I am retired but do substitute teaching. 

I live in the Centerville community and enjoy my country home. My husband, Bruce, and I raised three children, all Prairie View graduates, Kansas State University graduates and each now successful in their chosen career. 

Our family attends Centerville Community Church and I have held the church secretary position for over 20 years. 

I have very much enjoyed my career in teaching and will continue to be a passionate advocate for education. 

1. Why are you running for school board?

I am running to follow through with the positive changes that have been implemented since I served my first term on the Board. 

2) What do you hope to accomplish if elected to this position?

Working as a Board member with the Administration on curriculum improvement, which I believe is an ongoing process, and always striving to hire the best qualified staff and focus on constantly building a stronger pre-school through twelve district. 

3) What skills and/or experience do you have that will aid you in this position?

I have 29 years of experience teaching elementary grades through high school levels and I substitute teach for surrounding school districts. My experience has also been teaching in a school for behavior and emotional disorders for 13 years where my primary teaching was with students enrolled and/or court ordered into a substance abuse program. 

I also have eight years of experience on the Prairie View Board of Education and have been supporting Prairie View for all the years that my three children attended the district kindergarten through grade 12. 

4) What is your position on the mask mandates and Covid-19 protocols?

My position is supporting USD #362’s mitigation plan that was developed by the Administration and approved by the Board of Education.

These are the responses received to our questions for this election.