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Christiaan VandenHeuvel, a Livermore substitute teacher, district parent and pastor, is in the running for the school district’s Board of Education.
As a board member, he intends to improve education by using data-driven practices and fostering a collaborative board culture that opposes polarization and radicalism.
“I envision a future where every LVJUSD student can achieve their full potential,” he said in a statement. “I will work tirelessly to make our schools models of excellence, equity, and innovation.”
VandenHeuvel is running in a crowded race for two seats on the board. The five other contenders include Tara Boyce, Deena Kaplanis, Jean Paulsen, Amanda Pepper and Maggie Tufts.
VandenHeuvel brings direct classroom experience to his candidacy. As a frequent substitute teacher in LVJUSD, he sees students’ and teachers’ daily challenges and successes. In this realm, he aims to address student-to-teacher ratios, advocate for the needs of staff and work with the three unions associated with the district.
“I advocate for increased conversation and compromise, and more good-faith arguments,” VandenHeuvel said in a statement. “I believe in nuanced communication and decision-making.”
He also served as PTSA President at Livermore High School for three years, participated in the School Site Councils for Livermore High and East Avenue Middle School and took part in the Reopening Task Force.
His dedication to the school district is also rooted in his family, as he is married to Livermore High School teacher Kristina VandenHeuvel and is the father of a current student and two LHS graduates.
In addition to his involvement in education, VandenHeuvel brings decades of experience as a pastor and director to his candidacy. He also hopes to apply his diverse perspective to the role, as an immigrant who moved to the United States and learned English at 20 years old.
“I will be a reasonable, pragmatic advocate for students, educators, and parents,” VandenHeuvel said in a statement. “I aim to champion innovative teaching strategies and provide an inclusive environment for all students.”
For more information about VandenHeuvel and his campaign, visit vandenheuvelforschoolboard.com.
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