Board Members
ERPS Board of Education Members
Dan Guy, President
Dan Guy was appointed to the Board in April 2013. He is married to Sallie, they have 2 children that attend Eaton Rapids Public School programs. Dan was born and raised in Eaton Rapids and is currently employed by the Michigan Air National Guard. Dan graduated from Eaton Rapids High School, Park University, and Western Michigan University. As a parent, volunteer, and motivated individual, Dan hopes to be a positive contributor to the Board of Education and the Eaton Rapids Public School District. His current term expires December 2026.
Val VanSandt, Vice President
Valerie VanSandt is a motivated mom, coach, and volunteer for the Eaton Rapids Public School Community. She works as a small business partner at Chickadee Studios of Eaton Rapids, managing budget, production, staff, as well as customer and computer support. She is married and the mother of two daughters in our district. Her current term expires December 2028.
Steven Curry, Secretary
Steven Curry was elected to the Board for the term starting in January 2021. He is married to Sarah and has three children in the district. He graduated from the University of Bridgeport, Columbia International University, and Central Michigan University and has served as an educator for over 20 years. His work has enabled him to travel across the country to collaborate with other educational leaders on issues concerning district/school improvement. He is passionate about ensuring each student in Eaton Rapids, regardless of background, receives a high quality education that provides a solid foundation for exceeding personal goals through lifelong learning and positive civic contributions. His current term expires December 2026.
Jann Jansen, Treasurer
Jann Jansen was elected to the Board for the term starting in January 2021. She is a graduate of Central Michigan University with a degree in Elementary and Special Education. She earned her Masters degree in Teaching from Olivet College. Jann has worked at Eaton Regional Educational Service Agency since 1997, teaching students with special needs. She is married to Scott and has 2 children in the school district. Her current term expires December 2026.
Brian Ross, Trustee
Brian Ross is a graduate of Eaton Rapids High School and an Owner/Broker of Ross & Associates Realtors. Mr. Ross is involved in the County Planning Commission, ER Local Development Finance Authority, ER Business and School Alliance, and the ER Area Chamber of Commerce. His current term expires December 2030.
Becky Thompson, Trustee
Becky Thompson is married to Robert Thompson II and has four children with two still attending school in the district. She graduated from Michigan State University with degrees in criminal justice and psychology and completed post-graduate studies in criminal behavior at Tiffin University. She has lived in Eaton Rapids for over 30 years and enjoys spending time in the community. She is currently employed with the State of Michigan. She is passionate about ensuring each student is provided with a safe and positive environment to learn and has the tools to achieve their goals. Her current term expires December 2028.
Melissa Eckman, Trustee
Melissa Eckman was elected to the Board for the term starting January 2025. She is a
graduate of the University of Utah with a Bachelor’s Degree in Science. Melissa earned
her Juris Doctor and Master of Laws in Intellectual Property Law from Western Michigan
Thomas M. Cooley Law School. She is a practicing attorney in Michigan. Melissa is
married and has two children in the school district. Working to cultivate an environment
through teamwork that delivers a solid and competitive education in a safe and
inclusive environment, while helping students prepare for a successful future, are her
top priorities. Melissa’s term expires December 2030.