GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) – Grand Rapids Public Schools has been a significant part of Mulick Park Elementary School Principal Thomas Standifer’s life.
“I'm a proud product of the Grand Rapids Public Schools,” Standifer explained. “I wanted to give (back to) the district because I thought they gave me some great years and supported me in so many ways.”
Educating the next generation in Grand Rapids was a calling for Standifer.
“It was just put in my spirit, the things I learned, I always wanted to give to those who were close to me,” he said.
Standifer started as a substitute teacher in 2002. Over the next few years he served in LOOP, as a basketball coach, and eventually became a full-time teacher. In 2018, he became principal at Mulick Park Elementary School.
When asked why he loves being an educator, his answer comes easy.
“The joy of nurturing young minds and being a part of that educational journey, that's what keeps my passion alive,” Standifer responded. He also loves collaborating with the staff at Mulick Park. “At most schools people have people say, ‘oh a team.’ We're not a team, we're family.”
