Freeland Board Candidate - Cole

 Personal information/Educational background:

   Greetings, Freeland Falcons!  My name is Tim Cole and I am honored to be running for a seat on the Freeland Community School District’s Board of Education. 

   Although we have only been residents of Freeland for four years, our daughters have always attended Freeland schools and we have been active members of Zion Lutheran Church for 13 years, serving on the Board of Educational Ministry, teaching Sunday school, and coordinating Vacation Bible School.

   My oldest daughter, Christy, will be in 8th grade and her sister, Cate, will be in 6th grade this year.  My wife, Adrianne, is the Director of STEM@SVSU and we enjoy attending our girls’ softball games and spending time at our cottage on Elk Lake.

  What is the reason you are running for a seat on the Freeland Board of Education?

   One reason that I decided to run for school board at this time is my concern for the social and emotional well-being of our students.  Providing essential counseling services to all students by addressing gaps in counseling staffing and programming would be an issue I would definitely like to address.  I firmly believe that a vital element in supporting our students is listening to their needs, as well as the needs of the staff. 

   I would like to see a continued emphasis on providing staff with the support and resources they need to help our students continue to succeed and grow in this ever-changing world; we have a wealth of experience and knowledge with our teaching staff and by listening to all stakeholders (students, families, and teachers) we can continue the great work that this district has already accomplished.

   In addition to these goals, I would also work to help facilitate the move of 6th grade to the Middle School, address structural needs in the district, and expand opportunities for our students to learn through partnerships with businesses, our local career and technical centers, and the Early College. 

 

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

   I come to this position with over 17 years of experience in the field of education, working as a teacher and school counselor. While I am currently working as a counselor at Carrollton Elementary School, I have previously taught grades 8 through Early College, in classes ranging from intervention course to Advanced Placement (AP).

   In addition to working in education, I am a licensed professional counselor (LPC) and work part-time as a crisis intervention therapist with Saginaw County Community Mental Health Authority.   I believe that my experiences as a parent, educator and counselor provide the perfect lens through which to view the challenges facing our district and community. 

   I believe in this district and the education it offers our students.  I hope that by serving the community on the Board of Education, I can be a part of the great things I know are to come!