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Derek Burkholder

At-Large Board Member

Personal Statement

As a dedicated leader and lifelong learner, I want to drive transformative growth and excellence in early childhood education. I aim to create an environment where every child and educator thrives through innovation, strategic leadership, and unwavering commitment to quality and compliance.


In early childhood education, my goal is to elevate the standards of teaching and learning by implementing research-based strategies, fostering professional development, and creating nurturing, inclusive environments. I strive to address the critical issue of teacher retention by developing and deploying effective retention strategies that support and empower educators. My leadership will focus on continuous improvement, ensuring that every child receives the highest quality of education, and every teacher feels valued and supported.


As a community leader, I will leverage my skills and experience to contribute to the betterment of our society. I will actively participate in community initiatives, advocate for policies that support early childhood education, and volunteer my expertise to local organizations. My involvement in the Early Learning Coalition and other efforts demonstrates my commitment to positively impacting.


Ultimately, my vision is to inspire and lead by example, fostering environments where excellence is the norm and every individual—be it a child in a classroom or a teacher—can achieve their fullest potential. I aim to leave a legacy of growth, innovation, and excellence in early childhood education through strategic leadership, continuous learning, and a steadfast commitment to quality and compliance.


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