GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (GRPS) — Stocking Elementary School Principal Michael Thomasma was inspired to become an educator by his very first teacher: his mother.

Mr. Thomasma leads Stocking Elementary school, and as an educator, follows in the footsteps of his mother.

“I discovered that I also had that same passion.” Mr. Thomasma said. “I love teaching and I love seeing students succeed.”

Scholars at Stocking know Mr. Thomasma well and the connection he has with the young people he serves is obvious.

“I love being around kids and learning from them and letting them learn from me,” Mr. Thomasma said. “I love them. I care for them. I want them to succeed. That’s why I’m here.”

Be sure to watch Mr. Thomasma’s Principal Profile in the video above.

Watch more GRPS Principal Profiles HERE.