Board Member since 2003

Larry Collier, Board President, brings over 20 years of experience serving on the Allegan Area ESA Board and 12 years on the Otsego Board of Education. A retired GM employee with 27 years of service, Larry holds a Secondary Teaching Certificate and has earned the MASB Master Platinum Award.

Motivated by a desire to give back to the community, Larry’s leadership is guided by a belief in providing outstanding educational opportunities in a safe, secure environment that encourages success and risk-taking. He defines success as creating a space where students, teachers, and staff can thrive, with the board supporting students’ diverse needs through resources that enable them to reach their full potential.

Larry values community engagement, recognizing that citizens play a crucial role in the success of our programs. Outside of the board, Larry enjoys landscaping, volunteering with the Otsego Public Schools Foundation, and spending time with his grandchildren. A Vietnam Veteran, UAW member, and married to Betty since 1971, Larry strives to be a consensus builder, working to unite the community for the benefit of all students.

Board Member since 2019

Rick Day has been serving as a Board Member for the Allegan Area ESA since 2019, bringing with him a wealth of experience in leadership and public service. As a State Fire Marshal Inspector, he has dedicated much of his adult life to serving others. In addition to his role on the board, Rick has been actively involved in his community, serving as Vice President of the Allegan County Fair Board, as well as the Mayor of the City of Allegan for two terms and Mayor Pro-Tem for three terms.

Rick’s passion for public safety and his common-sense approach to problem-solving make him a valuable asset to the board as he works to enhance the lives of children and families within the district. He is married to Lori and has two children, Blake and Brandon.

Board Member since 2021

Mary Howard, Secretary of the Board of Education, brings 38 years of experience in public and private education, including 28 years as a teacher and elementary principal in Hopkins. After retiring, Mary joined the board to remain engaged in her passion for public education and to advocate for equitable, high-quality opportunities for all students.

She values Allegan Area ESA’s innovative programs, from early childhood initiatives to the Tech Center and Early College and envisions continued growth in providing exciting opportunities for students. Mary believes success stems from collaboration among families, teachers, and districts, with the board playing a vital role in ensuring resources and support are available for students with diverse needs. Outside of her board service, Mary enjoys traveling, reading, volunteering at the Hopkins Food Pantry, and participating in church activities.

Board Member since 2021

Leslie Ballard brings decades of experience and a passion for education to her role as Treasurer on the Board of Education. With a 16-year career at AdvancED, including serving as Director, she provided accreditation and school improvement services to schools across Indiana and internationally. Leslie’s background includes 26 years teaching high school and college English, earning National Board Certification, and being recognized as a Hoosier Hero for her contributions to education. She is also a published author, conference presenter, and certified trainer in school improvement strategies.

Leslie is committed to advancing the Allegan Area ESA’s mission, promoting early education programs, and expanding opportunities for students through the Tech Center and Early College programs. She defines success as empowering students to lead productive, fulfilling lives and believes community engagement is essential for programs like the Transition Center and Tech Center to thrive. Outside of her board service, Leslie enjoys traveling, volunteering, music events, reading, and lifelong learning.

Board Member since 2023

Cindy Smith brings a wealth of experience and dedication to her role as Trustee. With a BA in Spanish and seven years living in Brazil, Cindy has a rich multicultural background. She has worked at Plainwell Middle School since 2008 and is a proud mother of four and grandmother to 14 grandchildren.

Her long-standing commitment to supporting children inspired her to join the board, where she is motivated by addressing students’ needs and contributing to decisions that impact their education and well-being. Cindy’s vision is to ensure students have meaningful learning experiences, their needs are met, and they become productive members of society. She defines success as the emotional and academic growth of students, equipping teachers with necessary tools and professional development, and fostering a thriving district.

Cindy emphasizes the board’s role in staying connected with schools, supporting students with diverse needs, and making informed decisions. A strong advocate for community engagement, she values collaboration to address local needs. Cindy’s personal connection to the district runs deep, with her children and grandchildren attending area schools. Outside of her board work, she enjoys spending time with family, crafting, and relaxing at her cabin.