Educational Background: Colorado State University, B.S. (Human Development & Family Studies), East Tennessee State University, M.A. (Counseling), Kent State University, PhD (Counselor Education & Supervision)

Occupation: Professor of Professional Counseling, William Paterson University

What I Bring to the Table: Student & Staff Wellness

I am honored to be part of the Stop Raising Taxes - Support Students & Staff slate as a candidate for a two-year position on the Sparta Board of Education. Sparta residents since 2017, my husband and I were drawn to our township for its small-town community feel, proximity to trails and parks, and the beautiful scenery. As parents, the school district was very important in our decision making. 

We have always valued public education and sought a district that offered diverse learning opportunities, a caring and safe environment to foster student growth, and teachers and administration who promote student well-being. We envisioned a district where classroom excellence and extracurricular activities work together to support a well-rounded education experience. Our children are now 7th and 3rd graders, and over the years we have learned how crucial the Board of Education is as the foundation to support policies and decisions that bring these elements together.

Holding a leadership position on the Sparta Board of Education is an honor and a privilege to be taken seriously. It comes with an obligation to serve and support students, administration, teachers, and the community. Board of Education members should demonstrate respect and work together to promote an environment where diverse opinions can be shared and taken into consideration and where decisions are made with students' best interests in mind. 

With a background as a Licensed Professional Counselor, having earned a PhD in Counselor Education & Supervision, and as a Professor in a Professional Counseling program, I have built skills that will lend themselves to serve well on the Board of Education. I am a responsive listener and can find shared ground to work toward a common goal. This is imperative for all board members, as they work as a cohesive unit. My ability to appreciate multiple perspectives will help me hear and address the needs of every constituent with care. Effectively communicating best practices and relevant current research will also be an important contribution to the board as its members should aim to make informed, evidence-based decisions.

To continue the strong tradition of excellence in Sparta Schools, the benefits of public education should be accessible to all students. I believe socially and emotionally supportive environments are important for all workplaces, and school districts are no exception. When teachers feel supported and trusted to do the jobs they are professionally trained for, students have higher chances of excelling under their instruction. When teacher excellence and students' best interests are focal points, the board is not easily distracted by issues that can be detrimental - and costly - to the district. 

This value can be echoed across the community by assuring Sparta taxpayers that funding is always being spent toward the betterment of the schools and to the benefit of students and staff. This is ultimately reflected in the community when residents see the results of having a strong school district.

I am pleased to be part of this slate and feel confident that my contributions will complement those of my running-mates, and that we have a shared vision of excellence. I would be honored to be elected as a member of the Sparta Board of Education for 2025-2027. I plan to earn the community's support as we work together to maintain the excellence of Sparta public schools.

Michelle Hinkle

-Seeking a two year term-