Ferndale School Board Appoints Jessica Newman to Fill Board Vacancy
(Crystal A. Proxmire, Oct. 19, 2025)
Ferndale, MI – On Oct 13, Ferndale School Board Trustees voted to appoint Jessica Newman to fill a vacancy on the School Board until Dec 2026.
Newman is a lawyer, community organizer, and policy advocate who brings over 20 years of experience fighting for social and economic justice at the local, state, and national level.
She is excited to bring her experience to the Ferndale School Board because she believes public education is the cornerstone of a strong democracy and a vibrant community. Jessica deeply understands the intersection of education policy, community organizing, and convening stakeholders to create policies and a culture that works for all who are served by Ferndale Schools and ensures success for all students.
She holds a bachelor’s degree in Social Relations and Policy from James Madison College at Michigan State University and a JD from Washington University in St. Louis. She has lived in Ferndale for nearly five years.
Ferndale Schools announced the appointment, saying that “the Board interviewed highly qualified candidates, each bringing unique strengths and perspectives to the table,” and that the decision was difficult.
Following the selection, Newman was immediately sworn in by the Board to begin service without delay.
“We are excited to welcome Jessica to the Ferndale Public Schools Board,” said Sandra Dukhie, Board President. “Jessica’s fresh perspective and commitment to our school community will be a tremendous asset as we advance the work of our Dynamic Plan and support our students.”
Current Trustees are President Sandra Dukhie, Vice President Lisa Kaiser, Secretary Jonathan Turner, Treasurer Jackie Hart, David Crumrine, Mark de la Vergne, and Jessica Newman.
Learn more about Ferndale Schools at https://www.ferndaleschools.org.
