Q: What is your background in education? What inspired you to pursue this path?
A: My background in education has centered around serving students, staff, and families in a variety of leadership and instructional roles within the Woodhaven-Brownstown School District. Throughout my career, I have been passionate about creating opportunities for all students to succeed academically, socially, and emotionally. What inspired me to pursue education was the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in the lives of students and to help build strong school communities where every child feels supported and valued.
Q: What has been your favorite part of working in the WBSD thus far?
A: My favorite part of working in WBSD has been the relationships built with students, staff, families, and the broader community. WBSD has a strong sense of pride and commitment to doing what is best for kids. I have appreciated the collaborative culture within the district and the dedication of our educators and support staff who consistently go above and beyond for students.
Q: What positions have you held before Superintendent?
A: Prior to serving as Superintendent, I served as a Teacher (Woodhaven High School), Assistant Principal, Principal (Patrick Henry Middle School), and Executive Director of Special Services/Central Office Administrator within the district.
Q: How have these roles prepared you?
A: Each role has provided valuable experiences and perspectives that have prepared me for district leadership. Working as a teacher helped me understand the importance of classroom instruction and student relationships. Serving as an Assistant Principal and Principal strengthened my skills in school operations, instructional leadership, and team collaboration. My role in central office leadership and special services expanded my understanding of district-wide systems, student support services, compliance, budgeting, strategic planning, and community engagement. Together, these experiences have helped prepare me to lead with a student-centered focus while supporting staff and strengthening the overall district culture.
Q: What are some of your future plans for the district?
A: My focus moving forward is centered on continuous improvement while maintaining the strong foundation already in place across the district. I want to spend time listening, learning, and evaluating all aspects of our system to identify opportunities for growth. Priorities include strengthening academic achievement, supporting the social-emotional well-being of students, continuing to enhance special education and student support services, investing in staff development, and maintaining strong partnerships with families and the community. I also want to ensure we continue building safe, welcoming learning environments where every student feels connected and supported.
Q: How do you plan to communicate with the students, teachers, parents, community, etc.?
A: Communication will be one of my highest priorities. I believe strong schools are built on transparency, consistency, and relationships. I plan to maintain open lines of communication through regular district updates, staff meetings, community engagement opportunities, school visits, social media, and face-to-face conversations whenever possible. I also want to create opportunities for feedback from students, staff, parents, and community members so that people feel heard and involved in the work of the district.
Q: Are there any significant changes you are making to how the district runs?
A: At this time, my approach is not to come in and immediately make sweeping changes. My first priority is to learn the systems, understand the culture of the district, and build relationships with staff, students, and families. I believe thoughtful and collaborative decision-making leads to the best outcomes. As opportunities for improvement are identified, any adjustments will be made strategically, with input from stakeholders and always with student success at the center of the decision-making process.
Q: What will your first day in office look like?
A: My first day will primarily focus on listening, learning, and connecting with people across the district. I plan to spend time meeting with central office staff, administrators, teachers, and support staff while also visiting buildings and classrooms to begin building relationships with students and staff members. I want to gain a deeper understanding of the daily operations of the district and begin establishing a collaborative culture focused on teamwork, trust, and continuous improvement.
