Michelle Cook, the Royal Oak Schools Board of Education treasurer, is running for a second term in the Tuesday, Nov. 3 election.
Cook is one of six candidates competing for three seats up for election on the board. Fellow incumbent Deborah Anderson is also seeking re-election, alongside challengers Melissa Dodoro, Liz Dupee, Belem Morales and Trina Tocco. Each seat carries a four-year term, according to an Oakland County Times candidate profile.
Cook joined the board in January 2023. Her district biography lists membership on five board committees: Arts & Preservation, Policy, Curriculum, Student Board Representative, and Finance & Facilities.
Outside the board, Cook serves as a Royal Oak Public Library trustee and is a member of the Royal Oak High School PTSA, according to her campaign website.
Her district biography describes 25 years of public school teaching experience, from pre-K through third grade. She holds a bachelor's degree in elementary education from Western Michigan University and a master’s degree in TESOL from Eastern Michigan University. Her campaign says she has also taken Michigan Association of School Boards courses in school finance, law and policy.
Cook lists five priorities on her campaign site. They include ensuring all students receive an excellent education, using district resources efficiently and attracting and retaining educators and staff. She also calls for protecting the district's "inclusive culture of belonging" and continuing collaboration in the interest of the schools.
According to her campaign website, Cook initiated board workshops on transportation options and the use of technology and artificial intelligence in schools during her first term. She also says she worked with staff and community members on the district's long-range strategic plan and an upcoming bond proposal.
A School Improvement Bond Proposition will also appear on the Nov. 3 ballot, according to the district’s bond information page. The district describes proposed improvements to learning spaces, infrastructure, accessibility, security, athletic facilities and performance spaces.
Cook lives in Royal Oak with her husband Dwayne and their son Calvin. Her campaign says she has served on the committee for Oakland Elementary's 100th anniversary and is on the committee planning Royal Oak Middle School's centennial celebration.
The League of Women Voters Oakland Area hosted a candidate forum for the Royal Oak School Board race on Sept. 15 at the district's main conference room.
A recording is available through the League of Women Voters website.
