Educational leadership and public service — four decades of steady commitment to students, schools, and community across Ottawa County and Michigan.
Committed to dignity, inclusion, and opportunity for all.
Technologist, genealogist, and public servant — rooted in Spring Lake since 1954.
Born in Grand Rapids in 1948, John grew up in Spring Lake from 1954 and graduated from Spring Lake High School in 1966. He has lived in the Grand Haven area since 1967. At age 45, after being laid off, John returned to school full time. He held jobs at various companies in the area before settling down at GHSP/JSJ Corp, where he continued his education through night classes while working full time, earning an associate degree in computer science from Davenport University. He retired as a technology professional after spending 17 years in technical support.
John has devoted his working life and retirement to two callings: public education and preserving history. He served 22 years on the Grand Haven Area Public Schools Board of Education — eight as its president — and continues to serve on the Ottawa Area ISD Board of Education and the Michigan Association of School Boards Board of Directors. As a genealogist and digital archivist, he researches the Siemion USA family tree and restores vintage photographs, keeping community and family history alive for the next generation.
His approach to leadership is simple and has never changed: show up, listen first, tell the truth, and keep the focus on students and families.
“Leadership is not a position — it's a commitment to service, education, and community. Making a difference. Every day.”
Current roles in educational governance and civic life.
Supporting 11 public school districts, seven public school academies, and 18 non-public schools — helping ensure policies and programs meet the diverse academic, social, and operational needs of students across Ottawa County.
Representing Region 3 districts at the statewide level — guiding advocacy, shaping organizational policy, and making sure local district perspectives are heard in decisions affecting public education across Michigan. Earned all MASB certifications and recognitions, including the President's Award.
Serving the City of Grand Haven on issues of dignity, inclusion, and opportunity — working to strengthen relationships across the community.
Serving at the polls to help ensure elections are conducted fairly, accurately, and with integrity — civic duty at its most fundamental.
Veterans, neighbors, and local families — showing up where it counts.
Supporting veterans, community service initiatives, and charitable outreach through the Sons of the American Legion — honoring the service and sacrifice of veterans and their families.
Active in community service, charitable outreach, and civic engagement — supporting local families, veterans, and individuals in need while promoting fellowship and volunteerism.
Engaged in civic service projects, youth programs, and scholarship initiatives — serving as the Most Valuable Student Scholarship Coordinator, helping deserving students pursue higher education.
Contributing to programs that honor veterans and support military families — previously served three years as Club Manager at the VFW, supporting operations, events, and outreach with dignity and respect.
A record of service, year by year.
Represented Region 3 districts statewide, supporting governance, advocacy, and professional development for public school boards across Michigan.
Providing oversight and leadership for programs and services supporting public school districts, public school academies, and non-public schools throughout Ottawa County.
Serving the City of Grand Haven on issues of dignity, inclusion, and opportunity — working to strengthen relationships across the community.
Served on the Board of Directors and as Co-Chair of the 2025 Grand Haven Pride Festival — guiding planning, outreach, volunteer coordination, and inclusive community celebration.
Served for 22 years, including eight years as Board President — guiding strategic planning, policy development, fiscal oversight, and community engagement while supporting student achievement and long-term district stability.
Supported early childhood education and student enrichment through strategic planning, fundraising, and outreach. Registered ghsf.org and created the Foundation's original website.
Family is the center of John's world. Married to Wendy since 1980, he is the proud father of three, grandfather of six, and great-grandfather of five — with Polish roots that run deep and a family tree that now documents more than 64,000 individuals.
“Entering my fourth decade of public service, I remain deeply committed to advancing educational excellence, equity, and civic engagement.”