By Greg Chandler
Zeeland Record
Six candidates are running for three available six-year seats on the Zeeland Board of Education in this year’s election.
The candidate field includes two incumbents — Chad Creevy and Heidi Geerlings, both of whom are finishing their first term in office — and four challengers — Dianne Fikse, Abby Lucas, Eric Miller and Derrick Muilenburg. A third incumbent, Tom Den Herder, chose not to run for re-election after 24 years of service on the school board.
The Zeeland Record sent out questionnaires to each of the candidates, asking why they chose to run and seeking their thoughts on issues affecting the district. We hope their responses will help you make an informed decision as you cast your ballot.
The candidate responses are presented in alphabetical order by last name.
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Zeeland Record
Six candidates are running for three available six-year seats on the Zeeland Board of Education in this year’s election.
The candidate field includes two incumbents — Chad Creevy and Heidi Geerlings, both of whom are finishing their first term in office — and four challengers — Dianne Fikse, Abby Lucas, Eric Miller and Derrick Muilenburg. A third incumbent, Tom Den Herder, chose not to run for re-election after 24 years of service on the school board.
The Zeeland Record sent out questionnaires to each of the candidates, asking why they chose to run and seeking their thoughts on issues affecting the district. We hope their responses will help you make an informed decision as you cast your ballot.
The candidate responses are presented in alphabetical order by last name.
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Chad Creevy
Age: 47
Occupation: Senior Vice President of Asset Management – Macatawa Bank/Wintrust Trust Department
What led you to run for the school board?
Running for re-election because of my excitement toward the new direction that ZPS is taking under Superintendent Rod Hetherton’s leadership. This includes steps toward attaining students’ highest academic and life achievements through the use of a new districtwide Multi-Tiered Systematic Support (MTSS) structure filled with processes and protocols that are data driven which create measures for accountability in meeting each student’s needs. We are also simultaneously attempting to delicately balance declining enrollment that financially affects numerous other parts of the district.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
Addressing enrollment decline trends within ZPS are a top priority. Causes of these declines are not unique to ZPS, but as demographic changes and birthrate declines are occurring nationwide, Michigan has been affected more than national averages. We need to continue to improve our unique set of offerings for students/families and improve achievement levels. Our unique programming, such as systematic enrichment and intervention, Z-Links, Spanish Immersion, Performing Arts, Technical/Career courses and Z-Virtual provide options for students which we must continue to lean into. As a district we must push students toward higher achievement measured by testing and data while focusing on building a unified culture between East and West. Our MTSS districtwide platform refocuses instructional staff and coaches toward one common learning and assessment language. This will take a couple years to yield results, but a path toward a Blue Ribbon district distinction is a district goal.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
Enrollment declines directly affect our budget where 90% of our expenses are labor (teachers/staff). Causes of enrollment declines are not unique to ZPS as demographic changes and birthrate declines are occurring nationwide, but affecting Michigan more than national averages. Locally, ZPS has recognized we are in competition with other educational choices for families, therefore we need to continue to improve our unique set of offerings for students/families and improve achievement levels. Our programs such as: systematic enrichment and intervention, Z-Links, Spanish Immersion, Performing Arts, Technical/ Career courses and Virtual programming provide options for students which we must continue to lean into.
As a district we must push students toward higher achievement measured by testing and data while focusing on building a unified culture between East and West.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
Our newly hired CFO brings a wealth of experience and knowledge from his practices in public school systems as well as community college finance. Public school financing is vastly complex because of the many sources of funds such as state and federal grants, state aid payments, required flowthroughs for retiree benefits, special education funding, and shared services with many local private schools. Our top priority is student well-being and educational growth opportunities for each learner. As the needs and opportunities for our students grow, budget cutting is the last thing we want to do. Fortunately, we were able to use some of our fund balance to mitigate what could have been program cuts or staff reductions and was the right thing to do. ZPS has always been open and transparent with its budget, and annually undergoes a strict annual audit. I will ensure we continue to do so.
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Dianne Fikse
Age: 58
Occupation: Financial Manager at Ottawa County Community Mental Health
What led you to run for the school board?
I chose to run because of my family’s deep connection to Zeeland Public Schools. My son, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, and niece are all teachers in ZPS, and my grandchildren attend — and will continue to attend — Zeeland schools. Their experiences, and the experiences of the students and staff they work with every day, inspired me to step forward and serve. I want to support a district that remains strong, stable, and focused on student success, with high academic standards, well resourced classrooms, and a culture where teachers feel valued and families feel heard. My commitment comes from wanting the very best for the people I love and for every family who entrusts their children to ZPS.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
My priorities would center on supporting teachers, strengthening communication with families, and ensuring long term fiscal responsibility. Teachers are at the heart of student success, and creating a culture where they feel respected, supported, and heard is essential. I also believe strong communication builds trust and helps families feel connected to the district. Finally, my background in public sector financial management has taught me the importance of transparency, careful planning, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. These priorities work together to create a welcoming, academically strong district where students thrive and families feel confident.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
ZPS is navigating several important challenges: enrollment decline, the need to strengthen belonging, and maintaining strong communication with families. Enrollment affects funding, and even small shifts create real budget pressures. Families today also look for school environments where all students feel welcomed, represented, and valued. In addition, clear and consistent communication helps build trust and ensures families feel informed and supported. Addressing these issues requires thoughtful planning, strong relationships with families, and a district culture that supports belonging for students and staff.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
With the district planning to use $6 million of its fund balance, fiscal responsibility must be a top priority. My professional background centers on accountability, transparency, and stewardship of public resources, and I would bring that same approach to ZPS. It’s essential to clearly communicate why fund balance dollars are being used, how long that approach is sustainable, and what long term strategies will stabilize finances. I support strong internal controls, careful monitoring of trends that affect revenue, and transparent reporting so families and staff understand the district’s financial position. Responsible budgeting protects classrooms, supports teachers, and ensures ZPS remains stable for years to come.
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Age: 58
Occupation: Financial Manager at Ottawa County Community Mental Health
What led you to run for the school board?
I chose to run because of my family’s deep connection to Zeeland Public Schools. My son, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, and niece are all teachers in ZPS, and my grandchildren attend — and will continue to attend — Zeeland schools. Their experiences, and the experiences of the students and staff they work with every day, inspired me to step forward and serve. I want to support a district that remains strong, stable, and focused on student success, with high academic standards, well resourced classrooms, and a culture where teachers feel valued and families feel heard. My commitment comes from wanting the very best for the people I love and for every family who entrusts their children to ZPS.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
My priorities would center on supporting teachers, strengthening communication with families, and ensuring long term fiscal responsibility. Teachers are at the heart of student success, and creating a culture where they feel respected, supported, and heard is essential. I also believe strong communication builds trust and helps families feel connected to the district. Finally, my background in public sector financial management has taught me the importance of transparency, careful planning, and responsible stewardship of taxpayer dollars. These priorities work together to create a welcoming, academically strong district where students thrive and families feel confident.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
ZPS is navigating several important challenges: enrollment decline, the need to strengthen belonging, and maintaining strong communication with families. Enrollment affects funding, and even small shifts create real budget pressures. Families today also look for school environments where all students feel welcomed, represented, and valued. In addition, clear and consistent communication helps build trust and ensures families feel informed and supported. Addressing these issues requires thoughtful planning, strong relationships with families, and a district culture that supports belonging for students and staff.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
With the district planning to use $6 million of its fund balance, fiscal responsibility must be a top priority. My professional background centers on accountability, transparency, and stewardship of public resources, and I would bring that same approach to ZPS. It’s essential to clearly communicate why fund balance dollars are being used, how long that approach is sustainable, and what long term strategies will stabilize finances. I support strong internal controls, careful monitoring of trends that affect revenue, and transparent reporting so families and staff understand the district’s financial position. Responsible budgeting protects classrooms, supports teachers, and ensures ZPS remains stable for years to come.
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Heidi Geerlings
Age: 40
Occupation: Accounting
What led you to run for the school board?
I have served on the Zeeland Public Schools Board since December 2022, when I was appointed to fill a vacancy. In 2024, I was re-elected to continue serving. I graduated from Zeeland Public Schools and I now have two children attending our middle schools - one at Creekside and one at Cityside (yes, we are a split house! Go Dux! Go Chix!).
I have seen firsthand how hard the teachers and staff work to create a positive experience for students. My own children have had teachers that have supported them outside of school, taking time to come see a game after school or an event on the weekends. I am supportive of the district, our students, and staff at every level. By working with the Superintendent to achieve district goals, I want to continue to be a champion for the district and help Zeeland continue to be a great district.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
School Board responsibilities are to govern the school at a high level through policy setting, adopting budgets and evaluating the superintendent. I respect this and allow the superintendent to do his work, within the goals set by the board.
This past year has brought a lot of changes for the district, from programming to budget cuts. This has been a challenge. At the superintendent evaluation, we reviewed some areas of growth, and the board has been focused on setting goals. We will continue to meet again and discuss additional goals with the Superintendent that support the entire district. I believe this work is vital for our district to continue to build trust and transparency.
The board serves all students and families, thus it is important to always consider the full district and listen to all perspectives. I’m always available by email which you can find through the ZPS board website.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
Public school enrollment in Michigan has been declining statewide, in part due to aging population and declining birthrate. In reviewing the details that the district collects about enrollment, students coming to our district for school of choice have remained steady as have the number of students who are leaving our district for other options.
As a district, it is important to differentiate ourselves but also to retain high-quality programs. The district has been partnering with Michigan Farmstead (formerly The Critter Barn) to provide outdoor and Farm School experiences. The district is also working to expand their virtual programming, called Z-Virtual, to allow flexibility to students and families. This can allow us to serve current students but also provide opportunities to families who currently homeschool but are looking for more offerings. By providing unique opportunities and alternative options, our district can build high-quality programs and serve more students and families.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
Fiscal responsibility begins with transparency. The community deserves clear information about district funding, how this funding is spent, the factors contributing to the deficit (declining enrollment due to aging population and a decline in state-wide birthrates) and what is necessary for change.
The priority going forward should be to provide clear, regular updates on the budget and the district’s financial position. At the district website is a link on the homepage to Transparency Reporting. Budget reporting and any budget amendments are required to be posted here for the community. Additionally, the board gives regular updates at our monthly board meetings and I encourage the community to reach out with questions. Ultimately, we must be honest about the challenges we face.
This includes developing a realistic plan that maintains the educational programs and services our students need as well as protecting the long-term financial stability of our district.
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Abby Lucas
Age: 45
Occupation: Government and Nonprofit Banker
What led you to run for the school board?
What led me to run is a genuine investment in Zeeland Public Schools and my experience as a parent of three children in the district – one in high school, one in middle school, and one in elementary school. I see firsthand the impact our schools and educators have on our students, families, and community.
There are no specific issues that motived me to run. I’m running because I care about the future of ZPS and want to contribute my perspective, experience, and leadership. I believe strongly in good communication, transparency and making sure families, educators and students feel informed, heard, and valued.
I want to help ensure ZPS continues to provide an excellent education, support its teachers and staff, and make thoughtful, responsible decisions that keep our district strong. I believe my perspective as both a parent and a community professional would allow me to contribute in a meaningful way.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
My top priority would be strengthening communication and transparency with students, teachers, families and the community. I believe “clarity is kindness,” especially when changes are being considered or implemented. People deserve to understand the why behind decisions, have clear and timely information, and have opportunities to ask questions and share their perspectives.
I would also prioritize strong academics, supporting and retaining excellent teachers and staff, and responsible stewardship of district resources. As a board member, I want to better understand the data, listen to the people closest to our schools, and make thoughtful decisions that support students both today and long-term.
Finally, I would bring a collaborative mindset. I genuinely respect different perspectives and believe listening, asking questions and thoughtfully considering differing viewpoints leads to better decisions. I’m comfortable with respectful disagreement and believe we can work geotherm toward what is best for ZPS.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
One of the biggest challenges I see facing ZPS is declining enrollment. That’s certainly something we need to pay attention to, but it’s also important to recognize that this isn’t unique to Zeeland. Declining enrollment is a challenge being felt by school districts across Michigan. I don’t have all of the data to fully understand the many factors contributing to that decline, but they can include changes in housing and employment, school of choice, family circumstances, and educational choices.
I think understanding the reasons behind it and having thoughtful conversations about how we respond will be really important. There won’t necessarily be one simple answer, but I believe having good communication, listening to our community, and working together will be an important part of navigating whatever comes next.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
As a government banker, I bring a strong financial background and an understanding of the responsibility that comes with managing public funds. I believe fiscal responsibility means making thoughtful, strategic decisions that balance the needs of students and staff today with the long-term financial health of the district.
As a board member, I look forward to digging deeper into the budget, understanding what is working well and identifying opportunities to strengthen it event further when I join the board in January. I would also value from learning from other school districts and local governments through the relationships I have developed professionally and sharing best practices.
Transparency is equally important. I believe the community deserves clear, accessible information about how taxpayer dollars are being used and why financials decisions are being made. I would bring a collaborative, thoughtful approach and commitment to being a good steward of ZPS resources.
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Age: 45
Occupation: Government and Nonprofit Banker
What led you to run for the school board?
What led me to run is a genuine investment in Zeeland Public Schools and my experience as a parent of three children in the district – one in high school, one in middle school, and one in elementary school. I see firsthand the impact our schools and educators have on our students, families, and community.
There are no specific issues that motived me to run. I’m running because I care about the future of ZPS and want to contribute my perspective, experience, and leadership. I believe strongly in good communication, transparency and making sure families, educators and students feel informed, heard, and valued.
I want to help ensure ZPS continues to provide an excellent education, support its teachers and staff, and make thoughtful, responsible decisions that keep our district strong. I believe my perspective as both a parent and a community professional would allow me to contribute in a meaningful way.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
My top priority would be strengthening communication and transparency with students, teachers, families and the community. I believe “clarity is kindness,” especially when changes are being considered or implemented. People deserve to understand the why behind decisions, have clear and timely information, and have opportunities to ask questions and share their perspectives.
I would also prioritize strong academics, supporting and retaining excellent teachers and staff, and responsible stewardship of district resources. As a board member, I want to better understand the data, listen to the people closest to our schools, and make thoughtful decisions that support students both today and long-term.
Finally, I would bring a collaborative mindset. I genuinely respect different perspectives and believe listening, asking questions and thoughtfully considering differing viewpoints leads to better decisions. I’m comfortable with respectful disagreement and believe we can work geotherm toward what is best for ZPS.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
One of the biggest challenges I see facing ZPS is declining enrollment. That’s certainly something we need to pay attention to, but it’s also important to recognize that this isn’t unique to Zeeland. Declining enrollment is a challenge being felt by school districts across Michigan. I don’t have all of the data to fully understand the many factors contributing to that decline, but they can include changes in housing and employment, school of choice, family circumstances, and educational choices.
I think understanding the reasons behind it and having thoughtful conversations about how we respond will be really important. There won’t necessarily be one simple answer, but I believe having good communication, listening to our community, and working together will be an important part of navigating whatever comes next.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
As a government banker, I bring a strong financial background and an understanding of the responsibility that comes with managing public funds. I believe fiscal responsibility means making thoughtful, strategic decisions that balance the needs of students and staff today with the long-term financial health of the district.
As a board member, I look forward to digging deeper into the budget, understanding what is working well and identifying opportunities to strengthen it event further when I join the board in January. I would also value from learning from other school districts and local governments through the relationships I have developed professionally and sharing best practices.
Transparency is equally important. I believe the community deserves clear, accessible information about how taxpayer dollars are being used and why financials decisions are being made. I would bring a collaborative, thoughtful approach and commitment to being a good steward of ZPS resources.
—————
Eric Miller
Age: 52
Occupation: Account Executive
What led you to run for the school board?
I think we need change. With the declining enrollment and large budget items coming in the next couple years I want to be part of a positive change.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
Student enrollment. Fiscal responsibility and good use of tax payer money. Open communication. We need to get the community, students and teachers more engaged and involved.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
Enrollment and budget.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
Balanced budget. Focus on the immediate needs based on a priority scale. Transparency is key. We need to do a much better job communicating with our community with regards to budget and how the board is spending the taxpayers’ money.
—————
Age: 52
Occupation: Account Executive
What led you to run for the school board?
I think we need change. With the declining enrollment and large budget items coming in the next couple years I want to be part of a positive change.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
Student enrollment. Fiscal responsibility and good use of tax payer money. Open communication. We need to get the community, students and teachers more engaged and involved.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
Enrollment and budget.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
Balanced budget. Focus on the immediate needs based on a priority scale. Transparency is key. We need to do a much better job communicating with our community with regards to budget and how the board is spending the taxpayers’ money.
—————
Derrick Muilenburg
Age: 44
Occupation: Data Scientist
What led you to run for the school board?
Thirteen years ago, our family chose the ZPS district, and through those years we’ve experienced caring staff and great programming. I’ve watched what this district can do for my boys, and I want to maintain that experience for future families. I’m running because I think a board should represent not only the community at large but the parents whose kids are in school each day. I also want to bring the same evidence-based approach to the board as I do in my professional career, whether that’s in budgeting, long-term planning, or evaluating programming within the district. Over the past year I’ve done a lot of listening, and I’ve become convinced the district is at a point where careful, transparent decisions matter. This is my first candidacy, and I want to be the board member who shows up, listens first, and makes decisions on evidence rather than assumptions.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
Three priorities. First, protecting the excellent experience we have had with ZPS: the specialty programming, the teachers and staff who know their students, and the arts and athletics. Second, honest, multi-year planning. The district is working through a planned, multi-year deficit, and the board needs to plan beyond the next budget, make decisions early rather than later, and do that work in partnership with the community. Third, clear communication and transparency. Families should understand why decisions are made, what information went into them, and how the district will respond as circumstances change. These three belong together: programs are one of the reasons families choose and stay here, the finances determine whether those programs last, and communication decides when families hear about changes.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
Three issues stand out. First, long-term financial planning: the district is stable today, particularly following the recent reductions, but the board needs to continue planning beyond the next budget and monitor enrollment trends closely. Second, closing the measured gaps in reading and math achievement: ZPS compares favorably to state averages, but I think we should make every effort to help all students succeed, which means looking at the data and staying ahead of the problem. Third, communication: when significant changes are being considered, families should receive as much advance information as circumstances allow. These issues are connected: the financial picture determines what happens to programs, and keeping the community informed is vital.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
A budget that draws on the fund balance is a planned decision, and I believe the district is stable and solvent. State funding and enrollment have shifted, and some of the programming changes we have seen were required to help manage a planned, multi-year deficit of roughly seven million dollars, per the district’s own budget amendment. My attention is on the next several budgets, not this one alone. First, plan on a multi-year horizon and tell families early rather than surprising them later.
Second, make the hard calls early, and be clear with families about what the remaining balance covers and what role it should play going forward. Third, make the budget readable: clear numbers, regular updates, and real parent input before tough decisions are locked in. The district should manage costs deliberately and transparently, so the community knows where we are and where we are heading.
Age: 44
Occupation: Data Scientist
What led you to run for the school board?
Thirteen years ago, our family chose the ZPS district, and through those years we’ve experienced caring staff and great programming. I’ve watched what this district can do for my boys, and I want to maintain that experience for future families. I’m running because I think a board should represent not only the community at large but the parents whose kids are in school each day. I also want to bring the same evidence-based approach to the board as I do in my professional career, whether that’s in budgeting, long-term planning, or evaluating programming within the district. Over the past year I’ve done a lot of listening, and I’ve become convinced the district is at a point where careful, transparent decisions matter. This is my first candidacy, and I want to be the board member who shows up, listens first, and makes decisions on evidence rather than assumptions.
If elected, what would be your top priorities as a school board member and why?
Three priorities. First, protecting the excellent experience we have had with ZPS: the specialty programming, the teachers and staff who know their students, and the arts and athletics. Second, honest, multi-year planning. The district is working through a planned, multi-year deficit, and the board needs to plan beyond the next budget, make decisions early rather than later, and do that work in partnership with the community. Third, clear communication and transparency. Families should understand why decisions are made, what information went into them, and how the district will respond as circumstances change. These three belong together: programs are one of the reasons families choose and stay here, the finances determine whether those programs last, and communication decides when families hear about changes.
What are the most important issues facing Zeeland Public Schools?
Three issues stand out. First, long-term financial planning: the district is stable today, particularly following the recent reductions, but the board needs to continue planning beyond the next budget and monitor enrollment trends closely. Second, closing the measured gaps in reading and math achievement: ZPS compares favorably to state averages, but I think we should make every effort to help all students succeed, which means looking at the data and staying ahead of the problem. Third, communication: when significant changes are being considered, families should receive as much advance information as circumstances allow. These issues are connected: the financial picture determines what happens to programs, and keeping the community informed is vital.
The Zeeland school board adopted a budget in June that would use about $6 million of its fund balance. What are your priorities regarding fiscal responsibility and transparency for ZPS?
A budget that draws on the fund balance is a planned decision, and I believe the district is stable and solvent. State funding and enrollment have shifted, and some of the programming changes we have seen were required to help manage a planned, multi-year deficit of roughly seven million dollars, per the district’s own budget amendment. My attention is on the next several budgets, not this one alone. First, plan on a multi-year horizon and tell families early rather than surprising them later.
Second, make the hard calls early, and be clear with families about what the remaining balance covers and what role it should play going forward. Third, make the budget readable: clear numbers, regular updates, and real parent input before tough decisions are locked in. The district should manage costs deliberately and transparently, so the community knows where we are and where we are heading.
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