The Bedford Times-Press is featuring Bedford School Board candidates in this week’s paper. James Johnson is running for re-election in District 1. Russele Sleep and Rhonda Beemer are running in District 5. Sleep currently serves on the board. Questionnaires were sent out to all candidates. We did not receive a response from Russele Sleep.
Dr. Rhonda Beemer, District 5 Candidate
1. Please tell a little about yourself, family, jobs, etc.
I am originally from Hopkins, MO, where people knew me as “one of the Cross Triplets”. After graduating from North Nodaway High School, I earned my B.S. in Exercise Science with dual emphases in Athletic Training and Health/Fitness from Missouri Valley College, a Master’s degree in Physical Education from Eastern Kentucky University, and a Ph.D. in Administration and Teaching in Human Performance and Recreation from The University of Southern Mississippi. My professional background includes years of experience as a certified athletic trainer at the Division I, II, III, and high school levels, as well as 25 years of teaching in higher education. I currently serve as Chair of the School of Health Science and Wellness at Northwest Missouri State University, where I am also an Associate Professor, program coordinator of Applied Health Science, and the University Faculty Athletics Representative, reporting directly to the University President. I moved to Bedford, IA in 2013 with my husband Kolby Beemer, and at the time, three children. We now have five children that all attend the Bedford Community School District.
My leadership extends well beyond the classroom. I serve nationally on the NCAA Committee for Competitive Safeguards and Medical Aspects of Sports, where I also chair the Research Subcommittee and sit on their Administrative Committee focusing on student athlete health and safety. I previously served as Chair of the Faculty Senate at Northwest Missouri State University, where I guided policy development, represented faculty concerns, and reported to the university’s leadership team, including the president and the Board of Regents. This experience has equipped me with a strong background in governance, policy, and parliamentary procedures.
Beyond higher education, I have invested in the communities where I have lived. I previously served as a baseball commissioner in Hammond, LA overseeing over 400 youth, coaches, and umpires. Since moving to Bedford, I previously served on the Lions Club and have participated in activities associated with the Bedford United Methodist Church. I currently volunteer as a recreational coach and coached middle school softball. My commitment to the community comes not only from my professional work, but also from my personal experience as a mother and wife.
Overall, I bring a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective on education, leadership, and student development. I am passionate about supporting teachers, strengthening opportunities
for students, and ensuring that schools remain places where children can succeed. With my extensive leadership experience, my dedication to youth, and my strong family and community ties, I believe I am well prepared to serve on the school board and to be a voice for both educators and families. As a mom of five children, I have a great interest in the success of the school district.
James Johnson, District 1 Candidate
Please tell a little about yourself.
I am a 1994 graduate of BCHS. I graduated from NWMSU in 1998 with a B.S. in Ag Business and am the President/CEO of PCSB Bank. My wife and I have four children, who have all attended Bedford Community Schools. Our home is near Gravity. Currently, I am a volunteer high school softball coach and occasionally officiate high school basketball. It is important that we invest in our community both through economic contributions and through the commitment of our time volunteering.