Republic Board of Ed. President McConnell resigns position

Terry McConnell has resigned from his position as president of the Republic Board of Education, according to a statement distributed by the district. 

McConnell had served on the board since 2023 and was chosen to be board president in 2026. 

McConnell was taken into custody after an incident on June 20, which resulted in a misdemeanor assault charge. 

McConnell is accused of shoving a victim away multiple times after she tried to wrestle away a gun that he had pointed at his own head. McConnell is alleged to have woken his wife with the firearm pointed at his head, stating either "Today is the day" or "Tonight is the night" shortly after. 

According to court documents, the incident left the female victim with an injury to her arm, leading to the state charging McConnell with fourth-degree assault. 

McConnell allegedly took accountability for his actions after police responded later that night as he stated to the officer that “it was all his fault.”

McConnell has served the school district since 2023 and stepped down for “personal reasons” following the incident. 

The full message sent to district families and staff can be read below. 

“Republic School District Families and Employees, 

The Board of Education has received the resignation of Mr. Terry McConnell, who served as Board President. Mr. McConnell’s resignation comes as a result of personal matters. 

Mr. McConnell was elected to the Board of Education by voters in April 2023 and has been serving since then. He was appointed to the President position by fellow Board members in April 2026. 

There will be a special reorganization meeting in the coming weeks for members to accept Mr. McConnell’s resignation and elect new officers. Thank you for your continued support of the Republic School District.”