David Simpson

About David Simpson

I\'m an educator who believes the strength of a school comes from the strength of its relationships with students, staff, families, and the broader community. Over the past two decades, I\'ve served as a teacher, coach, principal, and statewide leader, always focused on creating schools where people feel seen, supported, and proud to belong.I currently serve as principal of a middle school in West Michigan and recently completed my term as President of MEMSPA, where I had the honor of advocating for principals and helping shape statewide conversations about the future of education. I also co-founded the Design Education Group, partnering with districts to grow instructional and leadership capacity in ways that are practical, sustainable, and rooted in everyday classroom work.I care deeply about the people I serve and the work we do together. Helping teachers grow, supporting students, and building a strong school culture continue to drive me every day.Outside of school, I write and speak through Educator Life Lab, focused on leadership, career longevity, and what it means to build a life that lasts beyond your last job title.

Experience

1. Principal Northern Hills Middle School

   Forest Hills Public Schools

   Jul 2017 — Present · Forest Hills Public Schools - Grand Rapids, MI, US

Education

• Michigan State University

  Master's Degree, K-12 Educational Administration

  2004 — 2006

• Michigan State University

  Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.), K-12 Educational Administration

  2007 — 2017

• Alma College

  Bachelor's Degree, Secondary Education and Teaching

  1999 — 2003

Skills

• Curriculum Design
• Education Reform
• Differentiated Instruction
• Instructional Technology
• Classroom
• K-12
• Teaching
• Technology Integration
• Lesson Planning
• Educational Technology
• Public Speaking
• Educational Consulting
• Classroom Management
• Educational Leadership
• Curriculum Development
• Elementary Education
• Staff Development