About Robert Cribbs
Meet Robert Cribbs: Educator, Coach, and Community Leader
Robert Cribbs is not your typical school board candidate. With a passion for education that spans decades, Robert brings a unique blend of classroom experience, business acumen, and community involvement to the table.
From Teacher-in-Training to Business Leader
Robert’s journey began in Louisville, Kentucky, where he dreamed of becoming a high school history teacher and coach. At Southeast Missouri State University, he immersed himself in education and school administration courses, laying the groundwork for a career in shaping young minds. Though life led him into the business world, Robert never lost his passion for education.
Choosing Forest Hills: A Commitment to Excellence
In 2002, Robert and his wife Dorothy made a deliberate choice to call Forest Hills home. Drawn by the district’s reputation for academic excellence and robust extracurricular offerings, they knew this was the ideal place to raise their two kids. Even as Robert’s career allowed them to live anywhere, the family chose to stay, recognizing the unparalleled educational opportunities Forest Hills provides.
A Track Record of Community Involvement
Robert’s dedication to youth development shines through his extensive volunteer work:
- Assistant Scout Master, 2 Eagle Scouts in the family
- YMCA baseball coach and umpire
- Forest Hills Central Middle School basketball coach (4+ years)
- Mary Free Bed YMCA sports official, currently
- Former Potter’s House High School JV girls basketball coach
- SCORE mentor, supporting small businesses in Kent County
Gaining an Insider’s Perspective
- Since his narrow loss in the 2022 school board election, Robert has doubled down on his commitment to understanding the district from every angle:
- Regular attendee at school board meetings (monthly board, financial, curriculum, and special sessions)
- Substitute teacher for both Forest Hills and Grand Rapids Public Schools
- Scoreboard operator for Forest Hills Central High School basketball
- School bus driver
A Vision for Unity and Academic Focus
Robert recognizes the growing divisiveness in our community and its impact on our children. He’s running for the school board with a clear mission: to refocus our schools on academic excellence while fostering a neutral, inclusive environment where all students can thrive.
“It’s time to move past ideological battles and unite around what matters most – providing our kids with the best possible education,” Robert says. “I’m committed to bringing people together and ensuring Forest Hills remains a district we can all be proud of.
“Vote Robert Cribbs for a fresh perspective, proven dedication, and a commitment to putting students first.”
Empowering Our Youth: The Power of Extracurricular Activities
Empowering Our Youth: The Power of Extracurricular Activities
As an advocate for our children’s holistic development, I’m passionate about the transformative power of extracurricular activities. Let me share with you why I believe these programs are crucial for our students’ growth:
Sports: More Than Just a Game
🏆 Sports offer an unparalleled opportunity for personal growth. As a coach, I’ve witnessed firsthand:
- Shy kids blossoming into confident leaders
- Individual players evolving into cohesive teams
- Dramatic improvements in physical skills and coordination
- Life lessons in perseverance, fair play, and goal-setting
Beyond Athletics: A World of Opportunities
🌟 But it’s not just about sports! Our district offers a rich tapestry of activities for every interest:
- “Odyssey of the Mind” for our creative problem-solvers
- “Model UN” for future diplomats and global thinkers
- Performing Arts to nurture self-expression and confidence
- Band programs that strike a chord with our musical talents
- And so much more!
The Common Thread: Building Community
🤝 Whether it’s on the field, on stage, or in a club, these activities share a crucial element: they’re team-based. This means every child has the chance to:
- Feel a sense of belonging
- Develop crucial social skills
- Learn the value of collaboration
- Build lasting friendships
As your school board candidate, I’m committed to supporting and expanding these vital programs. Let’s work together to ensure every student finds their passion and their place to shine!
Robert Cribbs 4 FHPS
Assistant Scout Master
While raising two boys, Robert was very active being involved in their school activities, in Cub Scouts and for over 8 years was an Assistant Scout Master for Troop 290 earning the “Order of the Arrow” and “Wood Badge”. It was a thrill for Dorothy and Robert to see their boys become Eagle Scouts.
Robert Cribbs 4 FHPS
YMCA Sports Coach and Referee
While his boys were growing up, Robert was a baseball and basketball coach with the YMCA. Robert is still a sports referee for grade school girls and boys at the Mary Free Bed YMCA.
Robert Cribbs 4 FHPS
Coach at FHPS Middle School & Potters House
Over the last four years, Robert has been a boys’ and girls’ basketball coach at FH Central Middle School, and former Girls’ Junior Varsity Basketball Coach at Potters House High School, Wyoming.
