Meet Susan

BIO

Hello, Paradise Valley community! My name is Susan Winder, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the Paradise Valley School Board in 2024. As a resident of Arizona for the past six years and a dedicated advocate for education, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the development and success of our local schools.

A Journey of Experience
I bring a wealth of experience from my diverse background. Having lived in Texas for 7 years, Michigan for 24 years, and having traveled extensively throughout the United States, Mexico, Europe, Israel, the Caribbean, and China, I have gained a unique perspective on education and understanding the different needs of students. My passion for education led me to an administrative position as a school principal in an American School in Shanghai, China, where unfortunately, external circumstances prevented me from taking on this fulfilling role.

Family and Education
Family is at the heart of my motivation. As the proud mother of two accomplished children—Kim, a cardiothoracic anesthesiologist, and my son, a molecular genetic technologist and sales professional for the Eppendorf Company—I understand the importance of a strong educational foundation. My dedication extends to my grandchildren, who currently attend middle and high school in the Scottsdale.

Passion for Learning and Curriculum Development
My love for children, working with people, and developing innovative programs fuels my commitment to education. I am a lifelong learner, always eager to explore new areas of interest. Curriculum development is my first love, and I am enthusiastic about bringing it to life with professionals in the field. I am computer literate in the Microsoft Office Suite, internet, and online classroom technology.

Commitment to Student Success
As the primary overseer of my grandchildren’s education, I have played a hands-on role in their academic journey. From intensive training in achievement, responsibility, and study skills to supervising online instruction during the challenging times of Covid, I am dedicated to fostering an environment where every student can thrive.

Why Vote for Susan Winder?
I bring a blend of real-world experience, a passion for education, and a commitment to student success. My diverse background, coupled with a keen understanding of the educational landscape, positions me as an advocate for positive change within the Paradise Valley School District. Together, let’s build a brighter future for our children.

I humbly ask for your support and the opportunity to earn your vote for the PVUSD School Board. Let’s make a difference together!

EDUCATION

Wayne State University Ph.D.

Completed all course work to finish a doctoral degree in K-12 curriculum and Instruction

M.Ed.  Adler Dreikurs Institute

Bowie State College, Bowie Maryland 1981. Major: Guidance & Counseling

B.S. in Education University of Maryland

College Park, Maryland 1971, Major: Elementary Education Minor: Fine Arts

Michigan Continuing Education

K-8 All Subjects
K-9 Guidance & Counseling and Fine Arts
K-12 Curriculum & Instruction

Michigan Administrative Certification

Mission Bible Institute

Phoenix, Arizona – Completed a Certificate in Biblical Studies and continue to take classes

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Elementary School Principal
Loon Lake Elementary School
Wixom, MI 48393

(1988 to 2005)

  • Chairman of district-wide Spelling & K-12 Science Committee
  • Facilitated Committees in: researching best practices, writing benchmarks, selection of new curriculum to support benchmarks
  • Developed trainers of trainer model for science
  • Managed district budget to support programs
  • Developed Extensive Parent Volunteer program in all areas. Trained and started literacy parent
    volunteer program.
  • Developed high school tutor/mentor program in area of literacy. Taught accompanying high school
    class.
  • Facilitated several cycles of NCA accreditation process. Retired from school leaving it outcomes endorsed through NCA. and identified as one of the first exemplary schools in the state of Michigan.
  • Facilitated re-districting of Loon Lake attendance area on two separate occasions.
  • Served on numerous district re-districting committees. Co-chaired one of these committees.
  • Made numerous School Board presentations based on district level commitments.
  • Was invited by the state of Michigan to present statewide as to becoming an exemplary school.
  • One on one tutoring of student’s grades 1st thru 6th in math and language arts.

University of Phoenix Online
1625 West Fountainhead Pkwy
Tempe, AZ
(2006 to 2020)

  • Instructor of Research at the Master’s Level, EDD 581
  • Campus Faculty Assessment Liaison (CFAL)
  • Leader of accreditation process for the online college of education
  • Scheduled, created and facilitated rubric calibration workshops for online education faculty
  • Scheduled, created and facilitated data analysis workshop for online education faculty

AWARDS

  • Nominated by PTA for Hearst Outstanding Educator Award
  • Presented Principal’s Academic Award by Loon Lake PTA
  • Chosen Administrator of the Year by Michigan Science Teacher’s Association (MSTA)
  • Presented Distinguished Service Award by PTSA Counsel