About Me
David Willard MBA
The photo above shows my wife Gretchen and I with two of our three grandchildren, all of whom are growing up within the Marana community. They are part of the reason why I am so passionate about the Marana School District.
While serving since I was appointed in 2023, we have guided MUSD to be one of the premier school districts in southern Arizona. People move to Marana so their children can attend one of our great schools. Marana is experiencing rapid growth with jobs, industry, and population. I bring the experience necessary to continue to guide our schools and young people through this time of expansion. My years of experience in business as a CFO in New York City to working in industry to currently leading a church in Marana helps me stay informed and relevant to the needs of Marana and our young people. All students have the right to walk into their future prepared and confident. They will experience success as I continue to guide Marana Schools.
My key goals are student success, school security, motivated teachers, and supportive administration. We can't serve Marana the way we need to without addressing these four goals.
In the past, I proactively led the Austin Independent School District through a successful $600 million dollar bond program that built new schools, added classroom space, and installed district-wide security measures to keep children and teachers safe while they focus on their education.
School security is paramount for learning. I have supported and approved expanded funding for increased security in all of our schools. As a member of the governing board, I have voted for limited access to non-school individuals, upgraded electronic security, updated fencing around our schools, and for internet security.
Marana needs and is currently developing new schools, which is paramount for the success of our students! Since Marana is such a growing community, we need new schools to develop with the community.
Work with me as I continue to enhance, protect, and grow our amazing Marana schools!
Personal Life
My wife and I have been married for 31 years and have four grown children. We also have two sons-in-law and a daughter-in-law, as well as three grandchildren. One of my daughters is a teacher at Quail Run Elementary.
I was born and raised in Morenci, AZ to two public school teachers and have had jobs all around the United States in Texas, New York, New Jersey, Colorado, until we moved back home to Arizona. My job moved me around so much to help support efforts to keep our country safe after 9/11.
My wife and I currently serve as the lead pastors of Gate Church, which is celebrating its ten year anniversary this year.
Endorsements
I have been endorsed by:
Marana Mayor Ed Honea
Marana Education Association (MEA)
Current board members Maribel Lopez, Tom Carlson, and Katherine Mikronis
Southern Arizona Conservative Association