Faber, Jeffrey - Lake Orion Community Schools
Are you an incumbent?
No
Brief Intro of Candidate
Hello, my name is Jeffrey Faber, and it is my great honor to run for the Lake Orion Community Schools Board of Education. Public service runs deep in my family, with educators, law enforcement, medical professionals, and military members. After 25 years of teaching in Lake Orion, where I worked at Carpenter Elementary, Pine Tree Elementary, and Oakview Middle School, I retired last June. For 12 of those years, I also served as President of the Lake Orion Education Association. Alongside my career in education, I have been a reserve police officer in Center Line, Michigan for the past 22 years, a role I continue to fulfill.
My wife, Karyn, is a Developmental Kindergarten teacher at Carpenter Elementary, and together we are proud parents of five children. Four of them are graduates of Lake Orion, and our youngest is a 6th grader at Waldon Middle School—where he absolutely loves it! Over the years, our kids have taken advantage of many of the fantastic district programs, including football, track, volleyball, robotics, choir, and band.
I am running for this position because I care deeply about the students, families, staff, and Lake Orion community. I believe my experience as both an educator and a parent give me a unique perspective and I am eager to work hard to help our district continue to thrive. My goal is to ensure our schools provide an exceptional education for every student, while supporting the incredible staff which makes that possible.
Endorsements
I have been endorsed by the Lake Orion Education Association.
Top financials Contributors
Website and social media links
Self funded as of 9/13/24
N/A
How would you engage and include parents, caregivers, community members and students in decision-making in your district around things like curriculum, budgeting and district policy?
I will engage parents by actively inviting them to attend school board meetings and encouraging their thoughts and feedback on district decisions. By being visible and present at school functions and in the community, I will create more opportunities to connect with families and listen to their concerns.
What are your thoughts on school discipline and the way it is exercised in your school district? What are your thoughts on restorative practices?
Restorative practices strengthen students' connections with both staff and peers, supporting both prevention and response. By focusing on positive relationships and support, these practices contribute to a healthier school climate. Repairing harm and restoring relationships after conflicts helps keep students connected to a supportive school community.
What are your thoughts on how to improve student mental health
I support improving student mental health by increasing mental health literacy, promoting mindfulness, and fostering social, emotional, and behavioral learning. Enhancing connectedness among students, staff, and families is key, as is providing effective training, interventions, and support for staff well-being.
What are your thoughts on ways to improve Black student achievement in your district and in Michigan schools overall?
I believe instruction should incorporate diverse perspectives, ensuring that textbooks and resources include voices from Black authors, historical figures, and role models. Additionally, we must work to guarantee equitable funding and access to resources across all schools.
What are your thoughts on how to ensure that all students and their families, regardless of race, gender identity, sexuality, disability, religion, income status, etc., feel safe and included in your district?
The benefits of teaching from a variety of perspectives in our schools are well established. In addition to fostering empathy and creativity, exposure to diversity and people from different backgrounds helps students think critically about their own beliefs, collaborate effectively, and develop cultural respect.
What are your thoughts on how to recruit and retain staff, particularly staff of color, in your district with regard to pay, benefits, and working conditions?
Competitive salaries and good benefits are crucial for recruiting and retaining quality educators. Equally important is fostering a healthy work environment where staff feel heard and supported by administration. For staff of color, it’s essential that they feel valued and their unique contributions are recognized. Additionally, providing opportunities for continued education and career growth is vital to keeping staff engaged and motivated.