David Hornak

As a parent my first meeting with David was in the summer of 2007, before the school year began. My family and I had just moved to the district a couple weeks before. We brought our middle son in for some testing, this being our first year in Holt. When we met David, he brought his tall, lanky body down to one knee and introduced himself not to us but our first grader. My husband and I were impressed right away by his ability to bring himself to our son’s level and to engage him from the first moment. David cares about all of his students and staff. That comes through with any interaction that you have with him. David has a gift of being able to assess a situation and know what specific attention he needs to bring to it.

Jennifer Miller

Horizon Parent &

District Walking School Bus Coordinator

I find myself uniquely qualified to support David Hornak for a central office position as I have observed him in a number of situations which have allowed me to witness first hand his dedication to the field of administration, his dedication to his academic preparation, and his willingness to do what it takes to let the students in his building rise to their full potential.

Josh Cooper

Dimondale Principal

Holt Public Schools

David is a calming influence in any room.  While others may speak swiftly and sometimes passionately in the heat of a discussion, David listens and considers.  His ability to remain grounded and speak with consideration comes from his vast experiences and the wisdom that he has gained from these experiences.

Jennifer Goodman

Hope School Principal

Holt Public Schools

During the time that I have known David, I have come to believe that he is an exceptional educator and leader. During this time, he has expanded his expertise in PK-12 educational leadership through doctoral study as well as through his dedicated performance as a building principal, implementing successful school improvement and curriculum development initiatives. Most importantly, Dr. Hornak is well versed on effective leadership practices and works effectively with all stakeholders to implement policies and programs that support student achievement.

Barbara A. Klocko, Ph.D.

Associate Professor, Central Michigan University

Dr. Hornak has a unique ability to build strong rapport and relationships with his students and staff, while demonstrating a talented competence to engage parents and community stakeholders with a focused vision. His work ethic and leadership styles are highlighted by his capacity to assume difficult task responsibilities, while simultaneously presenting positive solutions and quality program options with modeled efficiency and professionalism.

…His infectious, positive attitude and warm, easy demeanor allow him the ability to create lasting, trusting bonds with the style and grace of a candid, transparent communicator.

Jeffrey Collier, Superintendent

Au Gres-Sims Public Schools

“David quickly gained the support of the parents of his students. He encouraged them to work in a partnership with him in beginning their child’s formal educational process. He received a lot of positive feedback from them. This was most evidenced by the number of Sycamore parents who requested that their children beginning kindergarten in the fall be placed in his classroom.”

–Francine Minnick, Former Sycamore Elementary Principal, Holt, Michigan

Dr. Hornak!

Congratulations on the new title and for completing one of the world’s most difficult tasks. I can only say that you deserve the word “Doctor” in front of your name. I cannot say enough how thankful I am to have had your guidance and support through out my preparatory education, you have been a model and great source of counsel for many future teachers, and I am glad to be among them. I just read an article about the balanced calendar, you and Horizon were the main feature, which gave me a great sense of pride to think, “Hey, I was taught by that guy!”

Thanks for the support, the memories, and for just being great. Congrats!

Sincerely,

Maina (CMU Student)