About Me
I grew up in Collinsville, IL, and graduated from Collinsville High School before pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Business Management from Southern Illinois University–Edwardsville. In 2002, I started my career with the Edwardsville Police Department, where I trained at the Illinois State Police Academy. My role as a Police Officer was centered around community-oriented policing, and I was actively involved in a variety of programs.
My work with the department also led me to meet my wife at a local business. We’ve been happily married for 14 years and have one child who attends school in District 7. Both through my role as a School Resource Officer Coordinator and my wife’s involvement in the Parent Teachers Organization, we have been deeply committed to ensuring that our son, as well as other students, have the best and safest experiences possible in District 7 schools.
Career Accomplishments
With 20 years of law enforcement experience, I will bring a wealth of knowledge, skills, and dedication to District 7. My commitment to excellence and continuous improvement has consistently led to leadership roles throughout my career. Here are some highlights of my accomplishments:
- ALERRT Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events Instructor (2019-2022)
- ALERRT Active Shooter Integrated Response Instructor (2019-2022)
- Training Coordinator (2016-2022)
- Range Master (2016-2022)
- Lifesaving Award Recipient (2016-2022)
- Creator of Edwardsville Police Department’s first Citizen’s Police Academy
- Graduate of Northwestern University School of Police Staff and Command (2015-2022)
- Edwardsville Police Explorer Program Advisor (2014-2016-2022)
- Promoted to Sergeant (2014-2022)
- Union President, Fraternal Order of Police, Lodge #244 (2012-2016-2022)
- Firearms Instructor (2012-2022)
- Acting Shift Commander (2009-2022)
- Meritorious Service Award Recipient (2008-2022)
- Field Training Officer (2008-2022)
- Crime Scene Technician (2008-2022)
- Crisis Intervention Officer (2007-2022)
CONTRIBUTIONS TO DISTRICT 7
From 2016 to 2022, I led the School Resource Officer program as Sergeant, applying my in-depth knowledge of local, state, and federal laws, along with department and school policies, to effectively support students and staff. In this role, I worked closely with District 7 staff, acting as both a consultant and liaison between the school district and the police department, ensuring a strong focus on school safety.
Key accomplishments during my tenure include:
- Launching the District’s first Text-a-Tip program, providing essential real-time information to address student mental health and drug concerns.
- Earning two separate certifications as a School Resource Officer.
- Obtaining multiple certifications as an Active Threat Instructor.
- Overhauling the District’s Active Attack response by revising policies, updating procedures, enhancing safety measures, and training all District 7 staff to respond effectively.
GOALS
As your school board member, I’ll focus on three key areas: Accountability, Building Safety, and the well-being of Children and Staff.
Accountability – I believe everyone in District 7 must be accountable for the decisions they make that impact our schools. This includes the Board of Education, Superintendent, and Principals, who share responsibility not just for financial matters, but also for building safety, student behavior, and the overall quality of education.
Building Safety – My experience has taught me the critical importance of being prepared for active attacks and other emergencies. I believe the Board of Education must prioritize safety by actively participating in the planning and review of each school’s crisis plans. It’s essential that these plans are functional, and that students and staff are well-prepared to respond to any incident that threatens their health or safety. Additionally, the district must take a more proactive approach to enhancing the safety of school buildings to reduce the risk of unwanted intruders.
Children and Staff – I believe accountability and discipline are deeply connected. I will ensure that disciplinary actions are applied fairly and in line with state law, creating a safe and supportive environment for all students to learn. Additionally, addressing staff recruitment and retention is essential, and I’m committed to improving the quality of life for our teachers so they can successfully meet the challenges they encounter.
Improving these key areas, coupled with truthful and transparent communication, will enhance the district and benefit the communities District 7 serves.
