Pat Sheets
Position on the School Board: Trustee
Elected to the Board in 2006
Summary of School Board Training: Currently working toward certification . As a perpetual student, I will continue to take advantage of all educational opportunities presented to me.
Educational Background: BA, Olivet College
MA, Western Michigan University – Middle School Education
2nd MA, Western Michigan University – Gifted and Talented Education
Attended numerous classes/workshops at MSU, UM, Nationall College of Education, and UConn
Participated on many local, state and national committees and awarded for various innovative programs and classroom strategies on the local, state and national levels.
Occupation: Retired from Marshall Public Schools after 31 years of classroom teaching in the Middle School; Developed K-12 Gifted and Talented program recognized as exemplary on the state and national level: Gifted and Talented consultant. Currently, raising and racing standardbred horses.
Why I Want to be on the School Board: As a lifelong resident of the Olivet area, I decided to put my educational background to work for a community that has given so much to my family and me. Ivan Sheets used to tell people that “there is no finer place on the planet to raise children than Olivet.” I firmly believe that he was right. I am honored to help maintain this image by serving the school district as it moves forward to help our students become prepared for the world in which they will live.
Why I am Proud of our School System: There is an air of collaboration in Olivet Community Schools that is unique…I am proud that the three building principals are Olivet graduates, left for a time, and returned to serve the community that they love. From the top down, staff is encouraged to grow, experiment, and take advantage of opportunities of professional development. There is a caring atmosphere here that is grounded in being the best that one can be by creating a support system for each individual based on data and observation. There are so many opportunities for students in Olivet and I look forward to helping create even more.
Additional information: I have been a student, parent, and wife to a dedicated school employee during my association with the Olivet Community Schools. Although the road has been bumpy at times, my journey through the years of this bond have been rewarding and satisfying. I have met many wonderful people along the way. I look forward to many more positive experiences during my tenure on the Board of Education.