https://www.facebook.com/robertcribbs4fhps

1. Commitment to Educational Excellence
As a long-time Grand Rapids resident, we chose Forest Hills specifically for its educational opportunities. I am deeply invested in maintaining and improving the district's academic standards. My background in education, coupled with my extensive involvement in the district as a coach, substitute teacher, and even a bus driver, demonstrates my comprehensive understanding of the school system's needs. I’m running to ensure that Forest Hills continues to provide top-tier education for all students, focusing on academic achievement and innovative teaching practices.
2. Fostering Unity and Community Engagement
I recognize the growing divisiveness in the community and its potential impact on students. My candidacy is driven by a desire to refocus the district on academic excellence while creating a neutral, inclusive environment where all students can thrive. My extensive community involvement, from coaching to attending board meetings and township gatherings is because I am committed to bringing people together. My aim is to be a bridge-builder, ensuring that decisions are made in the best interest of the entire community, not just specific groups.
These reasons reflect my deep-rooted commitment to public education, extensive experience within the district, and my desire to serve as a unifying force for the benefit of all students and parents in Forest Hills Public Schools.

1. Improving Student Achievement
Concerned about the overall academic performance and success of students in our district. This is a fundamental issue that I will prioritize. To address this, I propose:
• Implementing innovative teaching practices and curriculum updates to enhance student learning
• Focusing on closing achievement gaps between different student groups
• Setting higher academic standards and improving testing criteria
• Advocating for smaller class sizes to provide more individualized attention
• Pursue a balance between higher education and the trades as not everyone needs to go to college

2. Fiscal Responsibility and Resource Allocation
Effective management of the district's budget and resources is crucial for the overall success of our school system. To address this issue, I propose:
• Conducting a comprehensive review of the district's budget to identify areas of inefficiency
• Prioritizing spending on programs that directly impact student learning and achievement
• Exploring alternative funding sources, such as grants or community partnerships
• Ensuring transparency in financial decisions and regularly communicating budget information to the public
This second issue is vital because it underpins the ability to implement improvements in other areas. Proper fiscal management ensures that resources are available to support educational initiatives, maintain facilities, and provide necessary services to students. Focusing on responsible resource allocation demonstrates my commitment to maximizing the impact of every dollar spent on education, which is likely to resonate with both parents and taxpayers in our district.

As a candidate for the school board, I support school choice because it empowers families to make educational decisions that best suit their children's needs. However, my vision goes beyond simply accepting choice as a reality. I believe we can transform our district into the preferred choice for families by focusing on excellence and innovation.
If elected, I will work tirelessly with fellow board members, administrators, and our community to create an educational environment that naturally attracts and retains students. My plan includes:
Strengthening STEM Education: Developing robust Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics programs that prepare our students for the jobs of tomorrow.
Investing in Excellent Teachers: Recruiting, retaining, and supporting top-tier educators who inspire and challenge our students.
Reducing Administrative Burden: Streamlining processes to allow teachers more time to focus on instruction rather than paperwork.
Building Community Trust: Fostering transparent communication and actively involving parents and community members in our school's success.
Promoting Innovation: Encouraging creative approaches to education that cater to diverse learning styles and interests.
By implementing these strategies, we can make our district schools the first choice for families, even in a competitive educational landscape. My goal is not just to support school choice, but to make our schools the best choice for every child in our community.

The ultimate authority in a child's education and well-being undoubtedly rests with the parents or guardians. This fundamental principle is not just a personal belief, but a cornerstone of our educational philosophy and legal framework.
Parental Authority and Responsibility
Parents and guardians are uniquely positioned to:
Understand their child's individual needs, strengths, and challenges
Make informed decisions about their child's educational path
Advocate for their child's best interests

Collaborative Approach
While parents hold the ultimate authority, education is most effective when it's a collaborative effort:
Schools: Provide expertise, resources, and structured learning environments
Teachers: Offer professional guidance and day-to-day instruction
Community: Supports and enriches educational experiences

Balancing Act
Recognizing parental authority doesn't mean diminishing the role of educators or ignoring state standards. Instead, it's about striking a balance where:
Parents' rights and choices are respected
Educational professionals can apply their expertise
Children receive the best possible education tailored to their needs
By affirming parents as the ultimate authority while fostering a collaborative educational ecosystem, we can create a more responsive, effective, and family-centered approach to education that benefits all children in our community.

I strongly disagree with the statement that "America is inherently racist." This claim oversimplifies a complex issue and ignores the significant progress our nation has made.
While America has faced racial challenges in its history, we've made substantial strides through legal reforms, increased diversity in leadership, and growing awareness of inequality. As a school board candidate, I believe education is key to fostering understanding and unity:
Promoting critical thinking about historical and contemporary issues
Celebrating diversity in our curriculum
Emphasizing shared American values
It's important to recognize that some media outlets and politicians may exacerbate divisions. However, racism is not inherent or inherited; it's a learned behavior that can be addressed through education and positive experiences.
Our focus should be on:
Teaching media literacy
Encouraging open, respectful dialogue
Promoting community engagement and cross-cultural interactions
Addressing specific instances of discrimination when they occur
Rather than labeling America as "inherently racist," we should concentrate on building a more perfect union through education, understanding, and commitment to our founding principles of equality and justice for all. (Ex: Teach about the Pilgrims & Mayflower Compact 1620 instead of Jamestown 1619 Project)

I believe that sex education in schools should be age-appropriate, medically accurate, and focused on biological facts rather than ideological perspectives. My stance on this issue is:

1. Parental Rights: Parents should have the primary role in discussing values and morality related to sex and relationships with their children. Schools should respect parental rights and provide transparency about the curriculum.
2. Age-Appropriate Content: Any sex education should be tailored to the developmental stage of the students and avoid introducing mature concepts too early.
3. Focus on Biology: The curriculum should prioritize teaching the biological aspects of human reproduction and the health implications of sexual activity.
4. Abstinence Education: While providing factual information about contraception, the curriculum should also emphasize the benefits of abstinence as the only 100% effective method to prevent pregnancy and STDs.
5. Opt-Out Option: Parents should have the right to opt their children out of sex education classes if they prefer to handle this education at home.

As a school board member, I will work to ensure that any sex education program in our schools aligns with these principles and respects the values of our community.

6B. “Diversity Equity and Inclusion”, and “Social Emotional Learning”? Should these be a part of our public education curriculum or supplemental learning materials or left to parents to teach and why?*

My position on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is as follows:
Equity vs. Equality: I firmly support equality, not equity. To illustrate this crucial difference:
As a basketball coach, I want all my players to have equal opportunities to improve their skills (equality). I encourage my top players to continue enhancing their abilities while also working to help my weaker players improve as much as possible so they can contribute effectively when needed. However, I would never hold back my best players to allow those who are less skilled to catch up artificially (equity). This approach ensures fair opportunities for all while respecting individual talents and efforts.
Similarly, in education, we should provide equal opportunities for all students to excel, without artificially leveling outcomes or holding back high achievers.
Diversity: I value diversity, particularly in terms of cultural exchange and the sharing of diverse ideas. Exposure to different perspectives can be enriching and educational.
Inclusion: I support inclusive practices that allow people from all backgrounds to participate in various activities, such as sports, extracurricular programs, projects, and group initiatives.

To address these issues realistically, I am committed to:
1. Advocating for curriculum transparency
2. Supporting policies that promote equal opportunities rather than equal outcomes
3. Encouraging diverse participation in school activities without mandating specific quotas
4. Fostering an environment where different viewpoints can be respectfully discussed and debated
My goal is to create an educational environment that prepares all students for success while respecting individual merit and promoting genuine understanding across different backgrounds.

6C. Regarding Social Emotional Learning (SEL), my position aligns with my stance on CRT and DEI:
I have significant concerns about how SEL is currently being implemented in many schools. While the development of social and emotional skills is important, I believe the current SEL framework often goes beyond its stated purpose and can be used as a vehicle for promoting ideological agendas. My approach to SEL would be as follows:
1. Focus on Core Academics: Our primary focus should be on academic excellence and essential life skills. Any social and emotional learning should be secondary to these core objectives.
2. Parental Involvement: Parents should be the primary source of social and emotional guidance for their children. Schools should not usurp this role.
3. Transparency: All SEL materials and curricula should be fully transparent and accessible to parents for review.
4. Avoid Ideological Content: SEL programs should be scrutinized to ensure they do not include content that promotes specific political or ideological viewpoints.
5. Opt-Out Option: Parents should have the right to opt their children out of SEL programs if they have concerns about the content.
6. Evidence-Based Approaches: Any SEL programs implemented should be based on solid, non-ideological research and proven to be effective in improving student outcomes.
As a school board member, I will work to ensure that any SEL programs in our schools are carefully evaluated, free from ideological influence, and respectful of parental rights and community values.

In conclusion, I want to emphasize my stance on these interconnected issues:
I firmly oppose the implementation of Critical Race Theory (CRT), the current interpretation of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI), and the ideological aspects of Social Emotional Learning (SEL) in our school system. While I value true diversity, equality of opportunity, and the development of essential life skills, I believe these current frameworks often serve as vehicles for ideological indoctrination rather than education.

As a school board member, I commit to:
1. Prioritizing academic excellence and core subject mastery
2. Ensuring curriculum transparency and parental involvement
3. Promoting equality of opportunity, not equity of outcomes
4. Fostering an environment where diverse viewpoints can be respectfully discussed
5. Scrutinizing and, where necessary, reforming or removing programs that push ideological agendas
6. Upholding parental rights in education, including opt-out options for controversial content

My goal is to create an educational environment that prepares all students for success based on individual merit, provides equal opportunities for growth, and respects the values of our community. I will work tirelessly to ensure our schools focus on quality education rather than ideological indoctrination, always putting the best interests of our students and the wishes of parents at the forefront of decision-making.

To address the declining academic achievement in core subjects across the nation, I would implement a comprehensive strategy focusing on several key areas:

Curriculum Reform and Standards Alignment
I would push for a thorough review and update of curricula to ensure they are rigorous, relevant, and aligned with current standards. This would include:
• Emphasizing critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Integrating real-world applications into lessons
• Regularly updating content to reflect current knowledge and technologies

Teacher Support and Professional Development
Investing in our educators is crucial for improving student outcomes. I would:
• Increase funding for ongoing professional development programs
• Implement mentorship programs for new teachers
• Provide resources and training for effective classroom management and differentiated instruction

Technology Integration and Digital Literacy
Leveraging technology can enhance learning experiences and prepare students for the future workforce. My plan would include:
• Ensuring all schools have access to up-to-date technology and high-speed internet
• Training teachers to effectively integrate technology into their lessons
• Incorporating digital literacy skills across all subjects

Early Intervention and Personalized Learning
Identifying and addressing learning gaps early is essential. I would advocate for:
• Implementing comprehensive early assessment programs
• Providing targeted interventions for struggling students
• Utilizing adaptive learning technologies to personalize instruction

STEM Education Enhancement
Given the importance of STEM fields in today's economy, I would focus on:
• Increasing funding for STEM programs and resources
• Partnering with industries to provide real-world STEM experiences
• Encouraging more underrepresented minorities to pursue STEM subjects

Literacy Initiatives
To address declining reading and writing skills, I would implement:
• Intensive literacy programs in early grades
• Reading intervention programs for struggling students
• Writing workshops and contests to encourage creative and analytical writing
• More reading from books and print with less through use of computers

Parent and Community Engagement
Recognizing the crucial role of families and communities in education, I would:
• Develop programs to increase parent involvement in schools
• Create community partnerships to provide additional learning opportunities
• Offer adult education programs to help parents support their children's learning

Data-Driven Decision Making
To ensure our efforts are effective, I would emphasize:
• Regular assessment of student progress and program effectiveness
• Using data analytics to identify successful strategies and areas for improvement
• Adjusting policies and programs based on evidence and outcomes

By implementing these strategies, we can work towards reversing the trend of declining academic achievement and ensure that our students are well-prepared for future success in an increasingly competitive global economy.

Safety for girls in their private spaces is indeed a critical concern for families and communities. If elected, I would support and encourage several key safety measures:

Education and Awareness
One of the most important steps is to educate girls, families, and communities about personal safety. This would include:
• Age-appropriate education on body autonomy and consent
• Teaching girls to recognize and report inappropriate behavior
• Providing information on available resources and support systems
Strengthening Legal Protections
I would advocate for stronger legal protections for girls in private spaces. This could involve:
• Reviewing and updating existing laws to ensure they adequately protect minors
• Implementing stricter penalties for offenders
• Ensuring law enforcement is properly trained to handle cases involving minors
Support Services
Expanding and improving support services is crucial for both prevention and response. I would work to:
• Increase funding for counseling and mental health services
• Establish more safe houses and shelters for girls at risk
• Create confidential reporting systems and helplines
Technology and Security Measures
Leveraging technology can significantly enhance safety in private spaces. I would encourage:
• Installation of adequate security systems in schools
• Educating girls and families on online safety and privacy measures
Community Involvement
Engaging the community is essential for creating a safer environment. I would promote:
• Community education initiatives on recognizing and reporting abuse
• Partnerships between schools, law enforcement, and community organizations

Further protection is no boys in girls’ sports, separate restroom facilities and locker/shower areas for those that think they are of a different gender

By implementing these measures, we can work towards creating safer private spaces for girls and providing families with the support and resources they need to protect their children.

Yes, Title IX is undoubtedly in jeopardy in our public education system today. The recent proposed changes threaten to undermine the very foundation of this landmark legislation, which has been crucial in advancing women's rights and opportunities in education and sports for over five decades.

Erosion of Women's Rights
The proposed reinterpretation of Title IX to include gender identity poses significant risks to the hard-earned progress of women in sports. This change could potentially:
Compromise Fair Competition: Allowing biological males to compete in women's sports categories could create an uneven playing field, given the inherent physiological differences between sexes.
Reduce Opportunities: The inclusion of transgender women in female sports may limit scholarship and educational opportunities for biological female athletes, undermining the original intent of Title IX.
Jeopardize Safety: In contact sports, the physical advantages of biological males could increase the risk of injury to female athletes.
Protecting the Integrity of Title IX
It is imperative that we take a stand to preserve the original intent of Title IX:
Safeguarding Women's Spaces: We must ensure that women's restrooms, locker rooms, and other private spaces remain protected and exclusive to biological females.
Preserving Fair Competition: It's crucial to maintain separate categories for women's sports based on biological sex to ensure fair competition and equal opportunities.
Upholding the Spirit of the Law: We need to resist any changes that would dilute the protections and opportunities Title IX was designed to provide for women and girls.
Call to Action
As concerned citizens, we must:
1. Advocate for the preservation of Title IX's original intent.
2. Support legal challenges to proposed changes that threaten women's sports.
3. Engage with local and national policymakers to voice our concerns.
4. Educate others about the potential consequences of reinterpreting Title IX.
While we acknowledge the complex nature of this issue, it's crucial to find solutions that don't come at the expense of opportunities for biological women and girls. We must stand firm in protecting the integrity of women's sports and the foundational principles of Title IX that have empowered generations of female athletes. I coach girls’ basketball and will always put my girls’ safety first or any situation where their safety could be put in jeopardy.

I am currently selective with endorsements to maintain a nonpartisan stance. However, I welcome support from family and education-focused organizations like Moms for America, as I see no conflict with my values. In 2022, I received support from Moms for Liberty and may receive it again this year, though no official announcement has been made. With seven candidates vying for two open seats in November, an endorsement from Moms for America could significantly boost a candidate's chances. After engaging with your organization and Dorothy and I meeting your families at the Carlson event, I would be honored to be considered for MFA support.