Hi, I’m Robert Cribbs
I am a 22-year Grand Rapids resident, father, coach, and a business leader. I appreciate you taking the time to review my website to get to know me. I would be honored to serve the Forest Hills Community as a Board of Education Member. Thank you for your vote!
I grew up in Louisville, Kentucky, and studied liberal arts at both Otterbein College and Southeast Missouri State University, initially planning to become a teacher and coach. However, I ended up following my father’s footsteps into sales.
My wife Dorothy and I moved to Grand Rapids in 2002 when I accepted an executive position with Hekman Furniture. We chose to live in the Forest Hills School District after carefully considering the best place to raise our two children. Even after starting my own international furniture distribution company, allowing us to live anywhere, we decided to stay in Michigan due to the lifestyle and educational opportunities our children received in Forest Hills.
I was actively involved in my children’s upbringing, serving as an Assistant Scout Master for Troop 290, where both became Eagle Scouts. I also coached and umpired baseball at the YMCA while they were growing up. For the past four years, I have been a boys’ and girls’ basketball coach at Forest Central Middle School, basketball scoreboard operator for Central High School, and a basketball official for the Mary Free Bed YMCA. I was also the girls’ JV basketball coach at Potters House High School.
ROBERT CRIBBS
A CANDIDATE IMMERSED IN THE DISTRICT
To all the residents of Forest Hills, I am running for the FHPS School Board not just as a candidate, but as someone who has fully immersed themselves in the fabric of our district. Over the past two years, I have taken a deep dive into the inner workings of our schools, engaging with every facet of the educational experience.
As a basketball coach and sports official, I have witnessed the transformative power of extracurricular activities, fostering teamwork, discipline, and a sense of belonging. I have walked the halls as a substitute teacher, gaining firsthand insight into the challenges our educators face and the incredible potential of our students.
In a bold move, I obtained my commercial driver’s license through FHPS Transportation Department, allowing me to serve as a part-time bus driver for our district. This experience has given me a unique perspective on the logistical challenges of transportation and the importance of ensuring safe and efficient travel for our children.
Furthermore, I have been attending community township meetings in Ada, Cascade, and Grand Rapids Township. Through these interactions, I have gained valuable insights into the community’s perspectives on our school district. I have also made efforts to build relationships with the township board members, fostering a collaborative environment that allows for a better understanding of how we can strengthen the partnership between our school district and the townships we serve.
I have been a constant presence at Forest Hills Board curriculum, finance and monthly board meetings, immersing myself in the discussions that shape our district’s policies and priorities.
I am not an outsider seeking a seat at the table; I am a candidate who has already rolled up their sleeves and done the work. I understand the intricate workings of our district from the ground up, and I am prepared to hit the ground running, collaborating with the board to make informed decisions that prioritize the success of our students and the well-being of our community. Vote for me, and you will have a representative who truly embodies the spirit of Forest Hills – a tireless advocate for excellence in education, a champion of extracurricular opportunities, and a voice for the diverse communities we serve.
My 10 Point Promise to the Forest Hills Community:
My 10 Point Promise to the Forest Hills Community:
1). Committed to serve all the people of Forest Hills all the time
2). Be respectful to all the people of the district and their ideas
3). Total commitment to academics and extracurricular activities
4). Always be attentive to the safety needs of the district
5). Always seeking what is best for students, teachers, staff, parents, and the community
6). I will be available to all parents by listening to their concerns, ideas, and comments
7). I will make myself visible and approachable before and after board meetings to discuss concerns and comments of parents and guardians attending these meetings
8). I will explain my position on any topic that is voted on by the board
9). I will respond to all parent’s and guardian’s inquiries received through emails and phone calls in a timely manner
10). I will make a conscious effort to follow the Michigan Legislative School Code 380.10 which states; that it is a natural and fundamental right of all parents and legal guardians to determine and direct the care, teaching, and education of their children to develop the pupil’s intellectual capabilities and vocation skills in a safe and positive environment. The public schools of this state serve the needs of the pupils by cooperating with the pupil’s parents and legal guardians to develop the pupil’s intellectual capabilities and vocational skills in a safe and positive environment. (http://legislature.mi.gov/doc.aspx?mcl-380-10)
When my boys were going to Northern, FHPS was in the top 10 of the school districts in Michigan. Today, according to (USNEWS), FHPS schools rank 21, 28, and 29 respectively. To me, being ranked near 30 of the top school districts in Michigan is not a success story. My goal is to get the academic rigor back in our school system striving to become the number one school district in the state! Why is this not possible?
Many of my goals as a school board member will be:
* Having a clear vision for improving Forest Hills education.
* Creating a quality education for all students.
* Focused on student achievement by implementing policies ensuring success for all students.
* Bringing the community together as there is too much divide within the district, by listening to all sides of an issue, and whatever is decided, will communicate effectively as to why a decision was made.
* Being an effective communicator and a good listener by making myself visible and approachable before and after board meetings to discuss concerns and ideas of the parents and guardians attending these meetings.
* Be respectful to the school board and superintendent.
* Constantly strive for a secure environment for all students, teachers, and employees.
* Overseeing school transportation so that every student will get to and from school each day and listen to the concerns of the bus drivers that are responsible for their safety.
* Standing up for parents’ concerns, as stated in the MSC 380.10, being sure that the district focuses on education.
* Adopting a fiscally sound district budget. Paying attention to finances and regularly monitoring the fiscal health of the district.
* Being very visible and supportive of the district and community activities.
* TRANSPARENCY! I will make it a top priority that the communications director set up all board, curriculum, and budget meetings to be live so that parents and members of the community that cannot attend these meetings can sign-on during these proceedings and be able to participate during public comments. These meetings are recorded so will be posted on the FHPS website within 24 hours of the meeting.
* With all the anxiety, social issues, and stress students have experienced especially since the lockouts and virtual classes, I want to be sure that FHPS has a proper staff of counselors and if needed mental health providers to help students that need support.
CAREER HIGHLIGHTS
*Junior Varsity Girls’ Basketball Coach, Potter’s House High School, Wyoming, MI
* Founded RowOne Home Entertainment furniture manufacturing company in 2022, sold the company in 2019
* Executive at Hekman /Woodmark Furniture, division of the Howard Miller Clock Company, Grand Rapids, MI
*General Manager Kimball Home (division of Kimball International), Jasper, IN
*Sales Manager at La-Z-Boy, Monroe, MI
*Owner of AmeriCon West Hospitality & Restaurant Supply Company
*Junior Varsity Girls’ Basketball Coach, Potter’s House High School, Wyoming, MI
CURRENT
* Forest Hills Central Middle School boys & girls’ Basketball Coach
* Substitute teacher for FHPS and GRPS
* Substitute bus driver at FHPS
* Scoreboard Operator FH Central High School boys and girls’ basketball
* Sports official at Mary Free Bed YMCA
* Transportation & Logistics Manager for Asia & USA shipping, delivery and warehousing at Gulfstream, Lenoir, NC
* Business Mentor with SCORE, U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA)
Personal Info
* Married to Dorothy, 30 years
* Father of two, ages 24 and 27 years old (both graduated Forest Hills Northern)
* B.S. in Liberal Arts from Southeast Missouri State University with emphasis on education
* Grew up in Louisville, Kentucky
* Moved to Grand Rapids from Jasper, Indiana
* Lived in Grand Rapids over 22 years
* Member of Keystone Church in Ada, MI
A HANDS-ON EDUCATOR READY to LEAD
Are you looking for a school board member who truly understands the day-to-day operations and unique cultures of our schools? Look no further! As an experienced substitute teacher, I’ve gone behind the scenes and immersed myself in the classrooms of both Forest Hills and Grand Rapids Public Schools.
This invaluable experience has given me an insider’s perspective that most candidates simply can’t match. I’ve witnessed firsthand the diverse leadership styles of our principals and how they shape each school’s distinct environment. From the supportive staff to the dedicated teachers, I’ve collaborated with them all and earned their trust.
My passion for education shines through in every classroom I step into. Schools frequently call me back because they know I bring enthusiasm, expertise, and a genuine commitment to our students’ success. Physical education is a particular forte of mine – keeping kids active and healthy is crucial!
When you vote for me, you’re voting for a candidate who has walked the halls, learned the ropes, and built relationships across our district. I don’t just talk about understanding our schools – I’ve lived it. Together, we can take Forest Hills Public Schools to new heights of achievement. Vote for an educator who will be a strong voice for our teachers, students, and families. Vote for hands-on leadership!
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
During my previous campaign for the school board two years ago, I recognized that our district encompasses three distinct communities: Ada, Grand Rapids Township, and Cascade Township, along with a small area of Kentwood. Each of these townships has its unique governance structure and management team.
To better understand the concerns and perspectives of these communities, I have made it a point to attend their respective township meetings. This has allowed me to establish relationships with the local administration and gain insights into the issues being discussed, including those related to Forest Hills Public Schools (FHPS).
I believe that some of the discussions surrounding FHPS have not always been positive, which may stem from a lack of direct representation and communication channels between the school board and these communities. As a school board member, I consider it crucial to foster strong relationships with the leadership of each township and create avenues for open dialogue.
By actively engaging with the local administrations and residents, I aim to ensure that their voices are heard and their concerns are addressed. This collaborative approach will enable us to work together effectively, addressing any issues within FHPS and ensuring that the needs of all communities within our district are met.
SPORTS & EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Last fall, I had the privilege of coaching the Forest Hills Central 7th grade boys’ basketball team. Our season was a resounding success, finishing with an impressive 10-2 record. The unwavering support from fellow coaches, the athletic department, and parents was truly remarkable, and I am immensely grateful.
As I look forward to my sixth year of coaching at Central, I am reminded of why I find this role so rewarding – the opportunity to work with young minds and shape their development through the lens of sports. Athletics provide an excellent platform for students to cultivate essential life skills such as teamwork, discipline, and resilience. It is a joy to witness their growth, from the first practice to the final game, as they mature into cohesive units, honing their physical abilities and blossoming into confident leaders.
However, a well-rounded education extends far beyond the realm of sports. For students who are not athletically inclined, our school district offers a diverse array of extracurricular activities that foster personal growth and a sense of community. Programs like Odyssey of the Mind, Model United Nations, Performing Arts, and Band provide invaluable opportunities for students to explore their interests, collaborate with peers, and develop a sense of belonging.
As a prospective member of the School Board, I will champion the importance of extracurricular involvement. These group activities not only enrich the educational experience but also equip our students with the social and emotional skills necessary to thrive in an increasingly interconnected world.
Together, we can ensure that every student at Forest Hills has access to a comprehensive education that nurtures their unique talents and prepares them for success in all aspects of life.
Robert Cribbs 4 FHPS
TRANSPORTATION: A VITAL LINK
I make it a point when there is a problem or a concern I will investigate to find solutions and bring the concerns and solutions to the attention of the board and superintendent to try and resolve the situation.
Over the past few years, I have been actively involved with the transportation department, assisting with special events for the drivers and staff. I have volunteered at the end-of-year “gala” events, setting up, tearing down, and grilling during the celebrations. These events have provided me with an opportunity to get to know the drivers and staff on a personal level.
With the new administration leading the department, there has been a significant improvement in the working environment, fostering a more positive and collaborative atmosphere. Recognizing my passion for helping others, the new staff suggested that I obtain my commercial driver’s license (CDL) and become a substitute bus driver. After careful consideration, I pursued this opportunity and am now being trained for driving for the district.
As a member of the Forest Hills School Board, I would have the privilege of supporting the transportation department and the dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to ensure the safe and efficient transportation of our students. In the business world, the delivery personnel often leave the last impression on customers, and their professionalism can significantly impact the overall customer experience. Similarly, school bus drivers are the first and last representatives of our district that parents and students interact with daily.
The Forest Hills Public Schools drivers exemplify the highest standards of professionalism, ensuring that our families can trust that their children are being transported safely and cared for by some of the best drivers in the industry. It would be an honor to be part of this exceptional team and to advocate for the transportation department as a member of the school board.
Parents should be aware of The Michigan Legislature School Code which states very clearly that the public-school system MUST PROVIDE transportation to and from the school if more that 1.5 miles from their home. If none is provided, the school system needs to compensate the parents for getting their children to and from school. If not aware of this provision in the Michigan Legislative School Codes, here is the link.
380.1321 Transportation for pupils; requirements; the legislative school code is as follows:
Sec. 1321
(1) Except as otherwise provided in this section, if a board of a school district provides transportation for its resident pupils, other than students with a disability transported under article 3 or other pupils who cannot safely walk to school, the school board shall provide transportation to and from school for each resident public or nonpublic school pupil if both of the following requirements are met:
(a) The school district provides transportation for the elementary school level, middle or junior high school level, or high school level, as defined by the local school board, in which the pupil is enrolled.
(b) The pupil attends either the public or the nearest state approved nonpublic school in the school district to which the pupil is eligible to be admitted.
(2) Transportation provided under subsection (1) shall be without charge to the resident pupil, the parent, guardian, or person standing in loco parentis to the pupil.
(3) A school district is not required to transport or pay for transportation of a resident pupil living within 1-1/2 miles, by the nearest traveled route, to the public or state approved nonpublic school in which the pupil is enrolled. A school district is not required to transport or pay for the transportation of a resident pupil attending a nonpublic school who lives in an area less than 1-1/2 miles from a public school in which public school pupils are not transported, except that the school district shall transport or pay for the transportation of the resident pupil from the public school within the area to the nonpublic school the pupil attends.
(4) A school district is not required to transport or pay for the transportation of resident pupils to state approved nonpublic schools located outside the district unless the school district transports some of its resident pupils, other than students with a disability under article 3, to public schools located outside the district, in which case the school district shall transport or pay for the transportation of resident pupils attending a state approved nonpublic school at least to the distance of the public schools located outside the district to which the district transports resident pupils and in the same general direction.
COMMITMENT TO STUDENT SUCCESS
I believe in empowering all students to succeed, whether their path leads to college, trade school, or directly into the workforce. As your school board representative, I will:
- Advocate for comprehensive career exploration programs that showcase diverse opportunities in trades, technology, and other high-demand fields
- Partner with local businesses and technical schools to provide job shadowing, apprenticeships, and dual enrollment options
- Promote a well-rounded education that balances core academics with practical skills development
- Support expanded extracurricular activities and clubs to foster student engagement and social connections especially since the shutdown of the schools seriously affected student’s social skills
- Encourage assemblies and events that highlight the full range of post-graduation pathways available to students
- Work to reduce pressure on students to pursue college if it’s not the right fit for their goals and interests
Michigan college students face a high dropout rate in their first year, estimated at 40% (Education Data). To combat this as a district we should:
- Strive to prepare all students for success in their chosen career path, whether that involves higher education or entering the workforce directly
- It is crucial to help students select a college degree that aligns with their interests and offers strong career prospects.
- Carefully evaluate their planned career path to ensure it’s both personally rewarding and financially viable.
- Help them look for fields with robust income potential and opportunities for growth, avoiding “dead-end” careers with limited long-term prospects. This is especially important if considering taking on student loans.
- Help students research employment trends, salary data, and job market projections to make an informed decision. Remembering, a responsible choice in their degree can lead to better job security, higher earnings, and greater career satisfaction over time.
- By investing in a degree with strong future potential, students will be better positioned to manage any educational debt and achieve long-term financial stability.
My goal is to ensure our schools equip students with the knowledge, skills and experiences they need to thrive in whatever future they choose. By broadening our approach to education, we can help every student discover their strengths and pursue a fulfilling career.