The Mattoon school board announced Jacob Uphoff will serve as a new board member representing Mattoon CUSD #2.
The vacancy became available on November 8, 2023, after Gary Kepley announced his resignation. The board interviewed applicants during their special board meeting on December 7, 2023, and appointed Uphoff.
“I have an unwavering passion and interest for this community and am committed to doing what is in the best interest of the Mattoon School District, its students, and its faculty. I look forward to serving the Mattoon School District in this capacity,” stated Uphoff.
Uphoff graduated from Mattoon High School in 2019 and then received his bachelor’s degree in Farm Management from the University of Illinois from the College of Agriculture, Consumer, and Environmental Sciences. Currently, Uphoff is an operator and co-owner of the Uphoff Family Farm in Mattoon. He and his wife Hannah, live in Paradise Township.
“We were fortunate to have three strong candidates interview for the position and we are extremely proud to welcome Jake as our newly appointed member, ” said Dale Righter, board president. “As a recent Mattoon graduate, I think he will bring a valuable perspective to the board.”
Uphoff will take the oath of office at the regular board meeting scheduled for Tuesday, December 12, 2023.