Candidate Profile: Michael Doobie Kurus

There are seven candidates for three Hopkins School Board positions up for election this year. This feature looks at Michael Doobie Kurus.

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What previous political experience do you have (including other governmental positions you’ve held, whether elected, appointed or volunteer)? 

This is my first time as a candidate for a public political office, although I am a former member of the Hopkins Legislative Action Coalition, as well as the University YMCA. I also have experience setting up and moderating legislative forums, testifying at the State Capitol, and co-founded an early childhood advocacy group, Start Learning Early.

What other relevant experience do you have? 

I have served on many district committees, such as the Superintendent's Communication Committee and Strategic Planning (for Early Childhood, Eisenhower Elementary, Community Education and District). I have been an active member of the Early Childhood Parent Advisory Council and the Eisenhower PTO. I currently am a member of the College of Education and Human Development's Alumni Society for the University of MN, and a past President.  I have 20+ years of experience as an educator, in both urban and suburban districts.

What is your occupation? I am a special education teacher, licensed from birth to age 21.

Where did you go to school?

I attended a public K-8 elementary school and a private high school in New Jersey. I also attended the University of Minnesota for both my undergraduate and graduate degrees.

How old are you? I am 41 years old.

• Take pride in our Hopkins Schools: From academics to the arts to athletics and beyond, great things are being done in this school district, and our entire community should be proud. Hopkins Schools have a tradition of excellence, and I am committed to continue this tradition for years to come.
• Act on behalf of the whole, but accept we may have different individual needs to address: As a school board member I will view issues with a broad lens, but also be open minded and receptive to new ideas and unique situations. As a member of a large family growing up, my parents modeled for me, firsthand, how to make decisions in the best interest of our family, but to be attentive of what various family members might need.
• Ask for no more than we need, and give back more than expected: Our resources are limited, so we need to use what we have wisely and be appreciative and protective of what we do have. Conversely, we need to not only give our students, families, and community what they expect, but work to exceed those expectations.