Freeland Board Candidate - Argyle

Personal information/Educational background:

   My wife and I have been residents of the Freeland community for 25 years.  Three of our daughters have successfully been educated within the school system, and our fourth daughter is currently a junior at Freeland High School.  I have served on the school board for the past six years including as Treasurer for the past two years. 

   I have a Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Central Michigan University, where I majored in Accounting.  I am currently the Chief Financial Officer of a facilities management company based in the tri-cities.  Our family enjoys spending time outdoors and supporting the endeavors of our children. What is the reason you are running for a seat on the Freeland Board of Education?

   I am seeking re-election to Freeland Board of Education to maintain consistency within the financial role of the Board.  These are challenging times; quite possibly the most challenging situation we have seen in decades.  Maintaining the balance between a quality education and fiscal requirements is first and foremost in my mind.  

What experiences and qualifications do you possess that will make you a successful member of the Freeland Board of Education?

   My experience in leading the financial and risk management area of our facilities company provides for the foundation to assist the Freeland Administration and Freeland School Board in balancing educational, financial and facility needs of our district. As the chair of the finance committee, and a member of the building and site committee, I am able to offer input, guidance, and recommendations to achieve our goals as a district.

   Additionally, with four children educated by the Freeland Community Schools, I have experienced the challenges and successes that have occurred over the years to prepare our students for the next level. Lastly, having sat on the Board for the past 6 years, as well as other committees/boards across the state, I have the experience to work through difficult situation and decision that occur from time to time during a board member’s tenure.  

 What do you believe is a critical issue facing education in Freeland, or education in general, and how would you like to see the issue addressed?

    I believe the toughest issue the education community will be faced with in the near term is funding. Educators are resilient and very adaptive to change when it comes to curriculum and technology. 

   The one area they have little to no control over is school financing.  Our educators need a strong voice within our State to facilitate change as we navigate, what appears to be, a very tough road ahead of us. 

   I would like to see a group of finance professionals coupled with curriculum experts to address State Government assistance in solving these ongoing funding issues.  This group would be able bring the local, real life issues that need addressed immediately.  Issues that need funding to educate our children properly and efficiently. My six year of experience as a previous appointee to the Governor’s Talent Investment Board would help to navigate those State issues.