School Board Election

Question #1 - What in your background and/or experiences do you feel will be beneficial to bring to the Caledonia Board of Education should you be elected?

Josh Carrasquillo: 

I’m a father of three young kids, ages 8, 6, and 3. Two of my children are currently part of the Caledonia school system. Being a parent of young kids has given me a personal stake in the future of our schools and the community we’re building for the next generation.

I grew up in West Michigan, attended Saranac High School, and graduated from Michigan State University. Today, I’m a partner at a film and video production company in Grand Rapids, where I’ve built a career around bringing people and ideas together. Outside of work, I’ve spent years volunteering and coaching, experiences that have reinforced for me how important schools, families, and community organizations are in helping kids develop confidence, character, and the skills they need to succeed. As a parent with young kids in the school system, I’ve come to appreciate that even more.

I believe strongly in hard work, personal responsibility, and being good stewards of the resources entrusted to us. I believe we should be accountable to the families and taxpayers who fund our community, and I also believe asking good questions is a sign of responsible leadership. 

I’m excited about our community and the opportunity to continue to make Caledonia a place where families want to raise their kids, teachers can do their best work, and students have every opportunity to succeed.

Question #2 - What are the challenges you see facing public schools today and how do you see yourself being an advocate for Caledonia Community Schools?

Josh Carrasquillo:
Caledonia is a district families are choosing, and that growth can put pressure on our facilities, class sizes, and budgets. Public schools everywhere face tight funding, rising costs, and the challenge of keeping students focused in a world full of distractions. I'll first look to learn and then advocate for what’s in the best interest of students, parents, and our school staff. My goal is to help keep Caledonia among Michigan's best districts in both academics and extracurricular activities. 

Question #3 - How do you view the role of the Caledonia Board of Education within the school district and community as a whole?

Josh Carrasquillo:
First and foremost, this is a volunteer position. To me, that means anyone has the opportunity to run and make a difference. Individual members don't have authority on their own. We act as a body in public, and we answer to the community that elected us. I see the board as the link between Caledonia families and the district. That means listening to parents, teachers, and taxpayers, asking questions, and making sure our decisions reflect this community's values of hard work, grit, and responsibility.

Important Dates

November 3 | Election Day
October 19 | Last day to register online or by mail
October 24 – November 1 | Early voting period

Voting Information

Caledonia Community Schools does not administer elections. Voting locations, absentee ballots, early voting, and voter registration are handled by local election officials.

For the most current information about where and how to vote, visit the Michigan Voter Information Center or contact your local city or township clerk.

Michigan Voter Information Center
Find Your Local Clerk 

Eligible voters may also register in person with their local clerk through Election Day.

Check Your Registration & Find Voting Information

Understanding the Role of a School Board Member

School board members play an important role in the governance of a public school district. If you'd like to learn more about the responsibilities of those elected to serve, the Michigan Association of School Boards provides an overview of the role of a local school board.

MASB: Role of a School Board