Governance
What is the Governance Board?
The Sparta Montessori Governance Board is a group of dedicated parents, community members, and advisors who help ensure the school operates effectively and remains true to its mission, vision, and educational goals. As the governing body of Sparta Montessori Schools, Inc., the board provides leadership and oversight, offering opportunities for both board and non-board members to contribute meaningfully to the school community.
What Does the Governance Board Do?
While the Sparta Area School District serves as the official authorizer and fiscal agent under Wisconsin charter school law, the Governance Board has autonomy over several key areas, including:
- Oversight of discretionary funds, charter grant funds (when available), and fundraising efforts
- Making hiring and staffing recommendations to the Sparta Board of Education
- Reviewing the performance of the school’s lead administrator
- Guiding strategic planning and helping set priorities in alignment with the school’s mission
- Encouraging strong parent and community involvement through collaboration and consensus-building
The board works in partnership with the school’s administration and staff, valuing input from families, students, and the broader community.
Board Meetings
Governance Board meetings are typically held on the first Tuesday of the month (unless it falls on a holiday or school closure day, in which case the meeting is moved to the following Tuesday). Meetings take place at Sparta Montessori School and are open to the public.
Current Board Members
The Governance Board includes voting members and advisory (non-voting) members:
Voting Members
- Katherine DeLeon – President
- Tim Smith – Vice President
- Kristen Geier – Treasurer
- Laura Carlson – Secretary
- Larsi Bendriss – Community/Business Board Rep.
- Shannon Ontiveros – Director
- Connie Jerome – Director
- Jessica Meyer – Director
Advisory Members (Non-Voting)
- Dr. Wendy Bernett – Principal, Administrative Supervisor
- Alicia Gaunky – Administrative Secretary
Interested in Serving on the Board?
Joining the Governance Board is a rewarding way to support Sparta Montessori and contribute to the success of its students. Whether you're a parent, grandparent, or community member, your voice and ideas are welcome!
- Terms last two to three years
- Open to all community members—not limited to parents of current students
- Board includes at least three parents and at least two community members
- Staff members serve as non-voting advisors to ensure school-wide collaboration
If you're interested in becoming a board member or joining a committee, click here to contact us or speak with a current board member.
Our Mission
Sparta Montessori ensures the growth of the whole child.
Our Vision
Our children are becoming independent thinkers who are positive influences in the community and the world.