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On Nov. 3, residents of the 78th district have an opportunity to elect a truly outstanding individual to be our State Representative — Dan VandenHeede.

Having taught with Dan at Dowagiac High School for 25 years, I saw first-hand how much he valued education and how hard he worked toward improving it. Public schools faced many challenges in those years, which Dan met with compassion and intelligence.

Dan taught government, civics, history — all social studies — with a passion. He understood his students and adapted his teaching to meet their needs. Going forward, challenges in education and those of the 78th District will require someone with these abilities and background. Dan VandenHeede is that person.

Dan believes in the adage, “practice what you teach.” While teaching full-time, Dan also served as a Niles city councilman for more than 20 years. He has the practical experience of governing his hometown. He understands the needs of the citizens. He is devoted to meeting the challenges of the future in Michigan. Dan would empower the people of the 78th District rather than big businesses and bureaucrats. Unlike his opponent, he is not beholden to big donors, such as the DeVos family.

Recently the president and secretary of education have been pushing to fully open all schools in the fall, regardless of the possible health consequences for students and teachers. They have even threatened to make things difficult for schools that don’t comply with their demands. These blanket demands have no regard for individual communities or states. We need elected officials who understand how schools and the communities they serve truly function.

Dan VandenHeede understands both and this is why I am supporting him for state representative in the 78th District.

In the ever-changing world we live in, we are going to need principled, knowledgeable, compassionate leadership. We need Dan VandenHeede for the future of the 78th District!

Teri Frantz

Buchanan