Data-Driven Leadership. West Michigan Grit.

The Reality: A Pivotal Moment for GRPS

Our district is at a crossroads. The data tells a story that requires urgent, expert leadership to rewrite:

• Academic Challenges: Currently, only 19.6% of our 3rd graders are proficient in English Language Arts and Math, and our district-wide SAT pass rate is 23.0%.

• Strategic Right-Sizing: Since 2015, enrollment has shifted from 15,200 students to 13,600. Despite this, we maintain over 40 schools and 33.6% of our teaching workforce is considered inexperienced. 

• The Goal: We must optimize our footprint to ensure our resources are redirected where they matter most—investing in student outcomes and supporting the educators who drive them.

Who I Am: West Michigan Roots & Values

• Multigenerational Work Ethic: Raised in a West Michigan farm family, I learned early that you wake up as early as it takes to get the job done. I will bring that same "stay until it's finished" resilience to the Board of Education.

• The Perspective of an Educator’s Family: As the husband of a dedicated special education teacher, I see the "heart" behind the data every day. I understand that our students and teachers are not just numbers—they are the pulse of our community.

• Dedicated Public Servant: My entire career has been built on the belief that strong public institutions are the foundation of a thriving city.

What I Bring: Professional Expertise

• Education Data Analyst: I possess the technical expertise to interpret complex student outcomes and ensure our district's strategies are backed by hard evidence, not guesswork.

• Former State Budget Analyst: I understand the mechanics of public finance. I will ensure every tax dollar is used efficiently to stabilize our district’s future.

• Strategic Governance: With a Master of Public Administration, I know how to move policy from a campaign promise to a functional reality.

Call to Action

It is time to elect a Trustee who is willing to take ownership of the challenges we face. I bring a growth mindset and a relentless desire for equity—because every student in every neighborhood deserves a fair chance at success.

It is time for growth for all. I would be honored to earn your support.