My Background...
My wife Mary Lou and I have lived in the Hudsonville area with our family for about 35 years.
Our five children all attended Hudsonville Public Schools from kindergarten through graduation.
I have served our community on the Hudsonville Public Schools Board of Education for 23 years.
I have served with three HPS superintendents and our work has covered multiple bond issues, six district strategic plans, and numerous improvements to district academic, extracurricular and social programs.
In addition to my involvement on the HPS Board, I am a member of the Michigan Association of Schools Boards Government Relations and Policy Committees, which are involved in defining state-wide school policy.
Through my involvement in AYSO Soccer, Scouting, the HPS Band Boosters and many church related activities, I have been an active participant in our Hudsonville community.
I have 40 years of experience as an engineer and leader at automotive and plastics related manufacturers in West Michigan.
What I believe...
The mission of Hudsonville Public Schools is to educate, challenge and inspire ALL students. This mission drives every discussion I have and decision I make as a board member.
The role of the Board of Education is to hire and evaluate the superintendent, set district policies, and provide fiscal oversight on behalf of community taxpayers.
The Board of Education is a strategic governance body and does not manage day to day operations of the district. That is the role of the superintendent and his/her team.
Boards of Education should partner with the superintendent to develop district strategic plans, promote continuous improvement, and establish approaches to monitor district performance.
The Board of Education is non-partisan, and must not be influenced by outside political organizations or action committees.
Why I Am Running for the Hudsonville Public Schools Board of Education...
A successful Board of Education has a balance of experience levels among members. New board members bring fresh perspectives, while longer serving members, such as myself, provide knowledge and experience of board roles and responsibilities, and of district planning and operations.
Board of Education members must put the needs of students, their families, and our staff first and foremost. My decisions are made with their best interests in mind while ensuring the long term success of the district.
Please contact me if you would like more information or with any questions:
Cell: 616-902-1857
Email: hallken38@gmail.com