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Occupation/Current Position
Retired educator, licensed social worker, prevention specialist, and certified Recovery Coach
Facebook
https://www.facebook.com/LulaWoodardSPSD
Education
Ed.S. in Educational Leadership, SVSU; M.A. in Special & Gen. Ed., University of Alabama; B.S. in Special & Gen. Ed., Chicago State University; minors in Reading Education & Early Childhood Education.
Saginaw Public Schools can be proud of its expanding career and technical education opportunities, its commitment to literacy, and its investment in the whole child. The Saginaw Career Complex offers 21 career programs and serves nearly 1,000 students annually, giving students access to hands-on training, college credit and industry credentials. These strengths give students multiple pathways to learn, develop practical skills and prepare for college, careers and life after graduation.
In recent years, I have remained active with Women of Colors and currently serve as a commissioner on the City of Saginaw Human Planning Commission. My broader civic involvement has included the Underground Railroad Board of Directors, NAACP, Saginaw Chamber of Commerce and the Saginaw County 1000 Leadership Initiative. Through these organizations, I have worked with residents, families and community partners on issues involving youth, prevention, leadership and quality of life. These experiences have strengthened my understanding of the community our schools serve.
I bring decades of experience in public education, special education, behavioral health and community service. As a recently retired teacher, licensed social worker and certified Recovery Coach in the substance-abuse field, I understand classroom needs and the challenges students and families may face outside of school. My background also includes educational leadership, special education supervision, college instruction, program administration, budgeting, policy review, data-informed decision-making, program evaluation, mentoring and family engagement.
The most important challenges include improving student achievement, addressing chronic absenteeism, supporting and retaining qualified staff, and making sure district resources are used effectively. I would support clear, measurable goals; regular review of student data; evidence-based literacy and math strategies; strong attendance interventions; and deeper family and community engagement. I would also emphasize responsible budgeting and transparent oversight while respecting the board’s governance role and the superintendent’s responsibility for day-to-day operations.
I am running because education and community service have been central to my life for decades. After recently retiring from a career in education, I want to continue serving students, families and the Saginaw community in a meaningful way. I believe my experience as an educator, licensed social worker, certified Recovery Coach, prevention specialist and community leader can contribute to thoughtful, informed board decisions. My priorities are student achievement, responsible stewardship, strong family-school partnerships and ensuring students have the support and opportunities they need to succeed.
