top of page

My Volunteer Work in Tahoma

Giving back to our schools and community is one of the greatest joys of my life. Over the past decade, I’ve had the honor of serving in many roles across Tahoma—supporting students, partnering with staff, and helping families feel welcomed and connected. Below is a glimpse into some of the ways I’ve been involved.
 

Cedar River Elementary (CRES)

Book Fair Chair (2020–present)

I’ve proudly led the CRES Book Fair since 2020. It’s one of the most fun events of the year, and I love ensuring every student and staff member gets free books to take home. I happily use my vacation hours to be fully present for both book fairs each school year.

Watch D.O.G.S. Volunteer and Chair

As a longtime participant and two-year chair, I’ve helped promote father and male role model involvement in schools. I worked with school administration to completely revamp the program in 2022.

National Anthem at Rainiers Game (4 years)

We offer any student the opportunity to join us in singing the Star Spangled Banner at a Rainiers baseball game. It is a chance to bring kids together, teach them to be brave, and honor our nation. Any student who wants to sing is welcome, and we will help guide and support them every step of the way.

Event Volunteer

  • Popcorn Days

  • Field Days

  • Mileage Mondays (back when it ran!)

  • School Carnivals

  • Art Fairs and Dances

  • Science Fair Judge

  • Playground Dance Parties

Classroom Support

  • Reading and math games

  • Popsicle parties and celebrations

  • Helping with classroom prep by cutting, stapling, and organizing

  • Filling in wherever teachers need an extra hand

  • Dance Parties (seems to be a trend when it comes to dance parties)

Awards

  • Co-Volunteer of the Year at CRES for 2023–2024 (I tied with my wife, although she is much better than I 🙂)

  • Co-Volunteer of the Year at CRES for 2024–2025 (another tie with my wife)

Summit Trail Middle School (STMS)

Family Support Partner (FSP) 2023–present

  • I serve as a bridge between families, the school, and the district. This role allows me to connect with new families—many from across the country and around the world—and help them feel welcomed and supported.

I love helping with:

  • Incoming 6th grade events

  • Staff partnerships to improve outreach

  • School dance chaperoning (including one legendary dad dance moment that I’ve promised to limit to once!)

Tahoma High School (THS)

Student Engagement & Mentorship

  • Recurring College Bound Program participant

  • Guest speaker for the Military History class (sharing life as a Naval pilot)

  • Career Day presenter on the U.S. Service Academies (2 years to date)

  • Participant in Cultural Fairs and Incoming Freshman Nights

  • Supporter of other student events as needed

Tahoma and Larger Community

Youth Sports Coach (8+ years)
I’ve been lucky to coach some incredible kids over the years in:

T-Ball

  • MV Parks & Rec (5–6 year olds)

Baseball

  • MV Pony (7–8 year olds)

Basketball

  • i9 Sports 2023 – 5th grade co-ed

  • MV Parks & Rec 2024

    • Grade 1/2 Girls Head Coach

  • MV Parks & Rec 2025

    • Grade 1/2 Girls Head Coach

    • Grade 4 Boys Head Coach

    • Grade 7/8 Assistant Coach

​

Flag Football

  • Gridiron Head Coach 2021

  • i9 Head Coach 2021–2022

Tackle Football

  • Tahoma Jr. Bears 2023 Assistant Coach

  • Tahoma Jr. Bears 2025 Assistant Coach

Coaching has allowed me to share my love for sports and teach kids the value of teamwork, perseverance, and being a good teammate and friend. I’ve been especially honored by the number of returning players I’ve coached over the years—it’s a joy to watch them grow and build relationships that last.

One more event that I am extremely proud of as part of our broader PNW community was during my time as the Commanding Officer of VAQ-129 SAU in Whidbey Island. I organized an event with a local Maple Valley resident and teacher at the Muckleshoot Tribal School to host students at the Naval Air Station. Students had the chance to fly simulators, tour jets, and watch flight practice up close. Events like these are what motivate me.

​

Whether it’s bringing kids up to the cockpit after Delta flights to sit in the captain’s seat, or taking time to talk with as many kids as possible at school events—especially those who seem troubled or alone—I always hope to be a source of support. I want to be someone who can help them the way so many people helped me along the way in life.

Here’s the heart behind my campaign and how I hope to serve our district

I never set out to run for school board—but looking back, I can see how the experiences I’ve had, the challenges I’ve faced, and the people I’ve served alongside have prepared me to help bring people together.

bottom of page