Continuously serving Kosciusko County since 1854
Ben Rice, a lifelong resident and graduate of the Warsaw Community School system, officially announced his candidacy for the Warsaw Community Schools Board of Trustees, representing district 7.
Rice brings roots in the community and a strong commitment to public education, according to a provided news release. His educational journey began at Redeemer Lutheran Church and School before enrolling in Warsaw Community Schools at Madison Elementary in the fourth grade. He continued through Edgewood Middle School and graduated from Warsaw Community High School in 2005.
“WarsawSchools played a critical role in shaping who I am today,” said Rice. “I’m running for school board because strong public schools matter — not just to students and families, but to the vitality and future of our entire community.”
Rice and his wife, Kati, have been married for 17 years and are parents of three children currently enrolled —or soon to be enrolled — in WCS. Their son, Becksley, will be a junior at WCHS; their son, Milo, will be a sixth-grader at Washington Elementary; and their youngest, Cully, will begin kindergarten at Washington after completing preschool through the Greater Warsaw Co-operative Pre-School. Kati is a licensed social worker and therapist with Hambright and Associates.
Professionally and civically, Rice has demonstrated a strong track record of community leadership and engagement, stated the release. Graduating from IPFW in 2009 with a bachelor’s degree in finance, he has been with Lake City Bank since 2010, currently serving as vice president, commercial banking officer. He has served as a trustee of the Warsaw Community Public Library since 2017 and currently holds the role of treasurer. He also serves as selection officer for the Kosciusko Leadership Academy Board, is a member of the Warsaw Rotary Club (serving as president for the 2025–26 Rotary year), and sits on the PFW Doermer School of Business Advisory Committee. In 2025, he also joined the Warsaw Education Foundation Board.
Rice said his experience collaborating with boards and community leaders has prepared him well for the responsibilities of school board service.
“I believe the role of a school board member is to provide responsible governance — setting clear direction and policies, supporting the superintendent and making thoughtful, fiscally sound decisions that always put students first,” Rice said. “I’m committed to listening, building consensus and planning for the long term so our schools remain strong and the clear choice for families.”
Rice emphasizes a collaborative and respectful approach to leadership, grounded in accountability and community trust. His campaign will focus on ensuring educational excellence, fiscal responsibility and continued sound investment in students, teachers and school resources.
“I’m excited for the opportunity to serve and give back to the schools and community that have given so much to me and my family,” Rice said.
