Thanks to these valued community members for their support!
Dr. Nirali Bora MD, MPH - Family Practice Physician and Public Health Advocate
“As a family medicine physician and public health advocate in Grand Rapids, I’m proud to endorse Kim Baron for the GRPS school board. Every day, I see how the health and well-being of children impacts their ability to learn and succeed in school. Kim brings a powerful combination of experience as a registered nurse with leadership experience in public education and policy. She understands that health and education are vital in helping our children flourish. Kim’s commitment to safe learning environments, nutritious meals, mental health resources, and supporting the needs of the whole child is exactly what our students and families need. I trust her to lead with compassion, integrity, and a deep understanding of what helps children thrive.”
Ivan Diaz - MI State Senate District 29 candidate, former Kent County Commissioner, Community Activist
“As a former elected official and candidate for State Senate District 29, I believe our schools should be places where every child is seen, supported, and empowered to succeed. Kim Baron is a champion for equity, strong public schools, and policies that put students and educators first. She understands that investing in inclusive classrooms, mental and physical health resources, and innovative learning opportunities is essential for preparing Grand Rapid’s youth for the future. I am pleased to endorse Kim Baron for GRPS school board because I trust she will fight for a school system that uplifts every student and reflects the values of our community.”
Anthony Diaz, GRPS parent, Owner of VanHarra Basura Removal, Bus Driver
I’m supporting Kim Baron for GRPS School Board because our kids deserve better schools that are safe, consistent, and focused on helping them actually learn and grow.
Kim really listens to people like us - working parents, families trying to do the best for our kids. She understands that when students feel safe and supported, that’s when they shine.
Kim Baron is for the kids, for the parents, and for the future of Grand Rapids. That’s why I’m voting for her!
Javier Cervantes - Grand Rapids Community Leader and Advocate
“As a nonprofit and community leader, I’ve seen firsthand how strong schools can transform lives and neighborhoods. Kim Baron is deeply committed to equity, inclusion, and ensuring every child has access to opportunity. Her collaborative leadership and vision for student success align with the values our community needs most. I am proud to endorse Kim Baron for GRPS school board.”
Sara Melton - GRPS Board Trustee, GRPS Parent
“Being a champion for change on the school board means standing up for accountability, transparency, and the well-being of every student. That’s why I’m proud to support Kim Baron for GRPS School Board. She brings fresh ideas and a strong commitment to Grand Rapids Public Schools. Kim Baron is the kind of leader who doesn’t just talk about change, she knows how to make it happen.”
Amy Borst - Owner of Carol Roeda Studios
“I am proud to endorse Kim Baron for GRPS School Board. As a local small business owner, I know that strong schools are the foundation of a strong community and workforce. Kim understands the connection between education and entrepreneurship and is committed to preparing students with the skills they need to succeed. Her dedication to fiscal responsibility and collaboration will ensure our schools remain both excellent and sustainable. ”
Marta Johnson - Community Organizer, GRPS Parent
“Organizing in our community has taught me that real change happens when people come together around shared values - and that’s exactly the kind of leadership Kim Baron brings. She knows that strong public schools are the foundation of opportunity and hope for every family. I’m proud to support Kim Baron for GRPS school board because she leads with integrity, listens to the people, and always put students first.”
Eve Julian - OHHS Swim and Dive Coach (23 years), former GRPS parent
“I have been coaching the Ottawa Hills Men’s Swim and Dive team for 23 years. Throughout those 23 years I have seen how important it is for students to have both academic and extracurricular opportunities to thrive. Kim understands that a well-rounded education includes support for athletics, the arts, and the extracurriculars that help students grow in confidence and teamwork. Kim is committed to making decisions that put students first. I am excited to endorse Kim Baron for GRPS Board of Education. ”
Sera Kerai MSW - Moms Demand Action Volunteer, Psychotherapist, GRPS Parent
Kim Baron has boundless energy, passion, and determination to do right by GRPS students. I am in awe of her relentless research, advocacy, and fierce, unwavering devotion to ensuring that GRPS is honoring its commitments to our kids.
As a Moms Demand Action volunteer, a psychotherapist, and a fellow GRPS mom, I trust Kim to fight for our kids’ safety, health, and well-being in our schools. Her background as nurse, a public health administrator, and as a parent will be tremendous assets to the school board. I wholeheartedly support Kim’s campaign.
Amber Kilpatrick - GRPS Board Trustee, GRPS Parent, Community Organizer, Spiritual Ecologist
“I ran for school board on a platform of compassion and healing-centered change- and that’s exactly why I’m supporting Kim Baron for GRPS Board of Education.
As a registered nurse who spent 9 years in our district supporting student's’ physical and mental health, Kim understands what our kids need to thrive. Her deep commitment to education justice and community advocacy has shown me that she will lead with heart, listen to our community, and always put kids first. Together, we can keep building schools where every child feels seen, supported, and loved.
April Kaiserlian LMSW - Psychotherapist, Certified Mindfulness Instructor, former GRPS parent
Mindfulness teaches us to listen deeply, lead with compassion, and create space for healing - and that’s exactly the kind of leadership Kim Baron brings to our schools. Her vision centers the well-being of students, educators, and families alike, ensuring every child feels seen and supported. Kim understands that true learning happens when our schools nurture both the mind and heart. I’m proud to support her campaign for GRPS school board and the thoughtful, caring change she will bring to our school community.
Andy Soper - Director of Operations and Programming for a local non-profit, former GRPS parent
“I have spent years working directly with young people, especially those who are most at risk, and I know how critical it is to have leaders who understand their unique challenges. Kim Baron has shown a deep commitment to creating safe, supportive, and equitable learning environments where every student can succeed. She listens to families, collaborates with educators, and consistently advocates for resources that ensure our most vulnerable youth are not left behind. That’s why I’m proud to endorse Kim for GRPS School Board.”
Erich Harmsen MEd, Educator, former GRPS Administrator
I grew up in GRPS, graduated from Ottawa Hills High School, and later had the honor of serving as a long-time administrator in the district. I know how much our schools mean to this community - they’re the heart of where we live, learn, and grow together.
That’s why I’m proud to support Kim Baron for GRPS School Board. She values our public schools and the people who make them strong - the students, families, and educators who show up every day.
Kim understands both the challenges and the promise of GRPS. I trust her to protect and strengthen our neighborhood schools so every student can thrive, just like I did.”
Barbara Lubic PhD - Professor of Higher Education, GRPS Parent, GRPS Sex Education Advisory Board Member
“As both an educator and a parent, I understand how important strong leadership is for our schools. That’s why I am proud to endorse Kim Baron for GRPS school board. Kim will listen to families, support educators, and will be committed to making sure every child has the opportunity to succeed. She will prioritize safe, supportive learning environments and wise use of resources. I urge you to join me in voting for Kim Baron.”