Meet the 2026-27 Candidates
2026-27 Board of Education Candidates
Mr. Christopher Long
Tell us a little bit about yourself and share with us how you are connected to our school district.
My name is Chris Long. I have lived in the Hannibal School district for over 55 years. I am married with two daughters. I am connected to Hannibal Central School in various ways. Myself and my two daughters are graduates of Hannibal Central School. I own a local contracting business along with another Hannibal graduate and employ a Hannibal graduate as well. I have been serving on the Hannibal School board since 2018. I have been a volunteer assistant coach for our girl's basketball teams for 7 years. I have also volunteered for various Hannibal School and community events.
What motivates you to become a board member - was there a particular issue that motivated you?
I became a board member in hopes of helping to support our children in receiving an education that will help them become productive citizens in our community. As well as to help assure that the community members of the district and employees of the district were properly represented as well.
What is your vision and best hopes for education in this community?
I envision and hope that Hannibal Central School will provide students with an education that will give them the tools they need to be successful in the ever changing world.
Mr. Seth Kerst
Tell us a little bit about yourself and share with us how you are connected to our school district.
A lifelong resident of the area, I grew up in Fair Haven and have called Hannibal home for over 25 years. Living right next to the school campus, I have a front-row seat to the growth and development of our district. My wife, Shannon, serves the district as a librarian and as a Cheerleading coach, further deepening our family’s commitment to Hannibal’s success. As a parent of three Hannibal graduates, I have seen firsthand how the right balance of academics and extracurriculars shapes a student’s future. Whether supporting my daughters at band, drama, and chorus performances or cheering from the sidelines of soccer, basketball, track, and cheer competitions, I’ve witnessed how these programs build character and community. Equally vital is the academic relationship between students and teachers. I believe our district’s success relies on fostering a culture where instruction meets personal responsibility. By prioritizing this balance, we ensure that every student is not only supported but empowered to thrive as they transition from our classrooms to the workforce or higher education.
What motivates you to become a board member - was there a particular issue that motivated you?
I am running for the School Board to ensure every student has the resources and support they need to thrive. I look forward to using my professional experience and deep community roots to serve the families of Hannibal.
What is your vision and best hopes for education in this community?
I hope to see the growth of the vital relationship between students and teachers (and coaches), ensuring every child receives the support they need to succeed. By balancing classroom excellence with programs like athletics and the arts, we can empower our students to take personal responsibility for their growth, leaving our schools fully prepared for the workforce or higher education and ready to lead in our community.
Mr. Gregory Hilton
Tell us a little bit about yourself and share with us how you are connected to our school district.
I am a long-term resident of Hannibal with many ties to the community. My five children have all attended Hannibal Central Schools. My wife Kristen has worked for the school district for over ten years. I have volunteered my support to many community programs and organizations; from coaching recreation baseball to Boy Scouts of America, to nine years as a member of HCS Board of Education. I believe in being actively engaged in your community, especially when it directly supports the development of our youth.
What motivates you to become a board member - was there a particular issue that motivated you?
I am motivated to be re-elected to the school board to continue shaping practical, educational opportunities for students. Providing students with pathways and options to be prepared for careers and life skills is a driver for me. Every student deserves the tools and opportunities to succeed, regardless of their background. I also see school board service as responsible community stewardship. Managing our resources wisely, planning for the future, and keeping our students and community needs at the center of every decision.
What is your vision and best hopes for education in this community?
My vision would be that every student is prepared for success in life, not just graduation. That means providing students with quality, well rounded education and practical life skills and knowledge.
Ms. Tammy Miner
Tell us a little bit about yourself and share with us how you are connected to our school district.
I am a devoted mother of 4 and wife of 30 years. I have dedicated myself to volunteering in any aspect that supports my children and the community. I am a 1995 graduate of Hannibal and purposefully moved back to Hannibal to allow my children to receive the same education that I did in an environment as supportive as the one I grew up in.
What motivates you to become a board member - was there a particular issue that motivated you?
I am motivated to become a board member to make sure that not only my children be given all learning opportunities, but all children. The more they know, the more they grow and become full functioning human beings.
What is your vision and best hopes for education in this community?
My hope for our educational system is to ensure that all students regardless of their background be given the opportunity to have access to high quality learning opportunities. And that teachers be given the support necessary to ensure the best teaching environment for our students.