Andrew Hulbert is superintendent of Michigan International Prep School (MIPS) and co-founder of Reimagine Education. With 12 years of experience as the leader of two virtual schools, Mr. Hulbert brings proven leadership, innovation, and integrity to his role at MIPS. As superintendent, Andrew is committed to producing educational solutions that tap into the individual student’s intrinsic motivation to learn, preparing them for a lifetime of success and personal growth.
Mr. Hulbert began his career in sales while completing his Bachelors of Science with a major in Chemistry and a minor in Biology from Eastern Michigan University. He completed his first Masters degree from Marygrove College in 2010, and earned a Central Office/Superintendent Certificate from Oakland University in 2014. Mr. Hulbert taught Biology and Chemistry in Bloomfield HIlls from 2007-2011.
In 2011, Oxford Community Schools hired Mr. Hulbert to help revitalize Oxford’s struggling virtual program, Oxford Virtual Academy. Under his direction, the Academy grew to over 2,200 students, and logged the highest completion rates and test scores among Michigan virtual schools. He also established an Early College program in alliance with Rochester College, Macomb Community College, and Washtenaw Community College, allowing students to earn an associate’s degree and a high school diploma in a five-year program, free of all costs.
Since its inception in 2017, Michigan International Prep School has been a place where every student is seen and valued as an individual. Each student is unique, with individual needs, abilities, and interests. The committed educators at MIPS view it as their responsibility to continually shape and mold the learning experience to match the needs of the individual student, delivering an academically rigorous and standards-based curriculum in a way that keeps the student engaged and learning. Mr. Hulbert’s vision is to work with each student to help them tap into the things that make them uniquely excited to learn and grow. He is committed to cultivating a school environment where young people are engaged and actively preparing for a fulfilling and purposeful future in our 21st century global economy.
Under Mr. Hulbert’s leadership, Michigan International Prep School has introduced a plethora of opportunities and innovations in pursuit of this vision. Because of this commitment to the pursuit of innovation and excellence, MIPS has grown to serve more than 1,350 Michigan students from nearly every county in the state, and has produced graduates who have gone on to attend notable colleges and universities, including University of Notre Dame, Michigan State University, Wake Forest Academy, Madonna University, etc.
In 2018, MIPS partnered with Michigan Initiative for Cybersecurity Education (MICE) to provide MIPS students with practical, real-world training in Cybersecurity and Computer Science. The MICE pathway offers online courses like PC Repair, Ethical Hacking, and IT Fundamentals. MICE also interfaces with TestOut, a certification company, to prepare students for real-world, industry-standard IT and cybersecurity certification exams.
In 2019, Mr. Hulbert oversaw the introduction of the MI Prep School of Arts, the first comprehensive virtual arts program in the state. The School of Arts provides students with expert and engaging instruction from practicing arts professionals in the areas of Music, Theatre, and Visual Arts.
One of Mr. Hulbert’s most notable accomplishments as superintendent is the establishment of a partnership with Cleary University to provide MIPS students with two significant dual enrollment opportunities: (1) an Early Middle College program which allows students to remain at MIPS for a 13th year, earning a full year of free college credit through Cleary, and (2) the Enhanced Dual Enrollment program which allows students to begin college courses in high school, graduating from high school with an a completed associate degree through Cleary.
As an additional benefit of this partnership, MIPS has designed and launched the HIVE maker space on Cleary’s main campus in Howell. The maker space boasts three distinct labs: a Construction Lab, a Modern Tech Lab, and a Communications Lab. This 3,000 sq ft learning space contains equipment for rough construction, programming, computer building and designing, systems design, injection molding, robotics and much more. The HIVE and its corresponding courses are available to students from anywhere in the state.
As yet another example of Mr. Hulbert’s vision in action, MIPS has provided a uniquely flexible educational option for numerous student athletes whose demanding training schedule makes a traditional school schedule impractical. MIPS has ongoing partnerships with Total Package Hockey, and USA Hockey, two high-intensity youth hockey schools that function as feeder programs for college hockey clubs, the NHL, the USHL, and other major hockey leagues.
Under Mr. Hulbert’s leadership, MIPS has been able to maintain a financially responsible fund balance, providing the MIPS students and staff with a bedrock of security for growth and innovation, and the ability to introduce a host of unique educational resources and opportunities to MIPS students.
In an effort to address the growing tide of emotional and mental health needs among Michigan young people, Mr. Hulbert forged a partnership with Wellspring Lutheran Services to make professional counseling services available to MIPS students as an additional support. MIPS also functions as the academic provider for Wellspring Academy, Michigan’s first public recovery high school.
Dr. William Skilling
Chief Operating Officer
In addition to serving as COO of MIPS, Dr. Skilling is President and co-owner of Reimagine Education, LCC. Prior to his current position, Dr. Skilling was a public school educator for 35 years in which he served as a principal and superintendent for the last 23 years. The schools he served received numerous awards for student achievement, innovation, and in creating unique educational opportunities. His high school was a National Exemplary Blue Ribbon School in 2000. He was Principal of the Year in Michigan in 1995. Byron Center High School was a pioneer in distance learning when they started offering distance learning classes in 1993.
In 2003, Dr. Skilling became superintendent of Webberville Community Schools. During his four years as superintendent, he managed to reverse an eleven-year streak of declining student enrollment. During his last three years as superintendent, the district experienced three consecutive years of student enrollment growth. Webberville also passed a sinking fund and bond issue to improve their facilities and build new ones.
One of Dr. Skilling's most significant accomplishments during his time at Webberville was his part in forging important community partnerships in order to build and operate the Spartan Center. The Spartan Center provided the first wellness/fitness center for all community members regardless of income, and even provided free healthcare and physical therapy services to those who could not afford it. Additionally, the Spartan Center was used for high school athletics and physical education classes.
During Dr. Skilling’s tenure, Webberville Community Schools were recognized for academic excellence. Webberville Middle School received the Michigan Association of School Board’s Curriculum Excellence Award and the Michigan Best Award in 2006. In 2007, Webberville Elementary School received the Michigan Blue Ribbon Exemplary School Award. In addition to these awards, both the elementary and middle school saw three consecutive years of student achievement growth.
As Superintendent of Oxford Community Schools, Dr. Skilling oversaw “Project Reimagine” for which Oxford Community Schools was recognize as a lighthouse school district of innovation by the state Superintendent of Public Instruction and MDE. Skilling oversaw the launch of a Fifth Core World Language program in which every student was required to study a world language for 11 years. The program was recognized locally, nationally and internationally by the Vice Premier of China in 2013. Dr. Skilling created the vision and platform for Oxford Virtual Academy (OVA) in 2010, which included the first virtual early college program in Michigan. OVA has been recognized as one of the best virtual schools in Michigan, with the highest completion rate and highest test scores. OVA provided education to students in Oakland County, surrounding counties, Detroit, Flint, Pontiac, Ann Arbor, and Ypsilanti. Dr. Skilling also Implemented the International Baccalaureate (IB) for all Oxford schools. His former school district was (and still is) the only all-district pre-k through 12th grade IB program in the state of Michigan. He launched a required 6-8 pre-engineering program and 9-12 engineering program that both received local and state awards for innovation and curriculum excellence. Oxford Schools also launched a pre-K through high school orchestra program under his oversight in 2009. When he retired in 2015, there were over 500 orchestra students.
Dr. Skilling was an adjunct professor of Educational Leadership for 18 years teaching at Grand Valley State University for 13 years and Oakland University for 5 years. He has traveled nationally and internationally speaking about global education, educational leadership, edupreneurship, and methods for using technology to improve teaching and learning. In 2012, Dr. Skilling was recognized as the Tech Savvy Superintendent of the Year from the Michigan Association of School Administrators. Finally, under his leadership, Oxford Community Schools received eight (8) Curriculum Excellence Awards from the Michigan Association of School Boards.
Faisal Askar
Director of Technology
As the Director of Technology at Michigan International Prep School, Faisal is responsible for managing the installation of technology systems and tools, including both software and hardware. He monitors software access and permissions for both students and staff, and oversees the cybersecurity of school devices and networks. Most importantly, Faisal and his team are committed to providing the highest level of technical service to our learning community.
Faisal graduated in 2015 from Lawrence Technological University with a Master's degree in Computer Sciences. He also obtained His Master's in Business Administration in 2019 from Columbia Southern University.
Faisal is passionate about helping students to accell academically by providing them with the highest level of technical equipment and service. Before coming to MIPS, Faisal worked for Nemak, an automotive supplier company. He managed 5 locations in 5 states besides Michigan.
Why Faisal chose MIPS:
"MIPS has an excellent reputation for the quality of its teaching and the excellent behavior of its pupils. I'm thrilled to be a part of such a committed team and to add my own skills and experience to further strengthen the high-quality experience that this school offers to its students.
I'm grateful to feel that I can help to make a difference in the lives of MIPS students, and to contribute to a supportive and nurturing environment that allows every child to achieve greatness, regardless of the challenges they may face.
Angie Browne
Executive Director of Finances & HR
Angie Browne is the Executive Director of Finance and HR. She graduated with her MBA from Walsh College with a minor in Human Resources. With over 26 combined years of experience in the education finance world, Angie is the accounting wizard who keeps MIPS functioning smoothly from day to day. She’s passionate about reading and all things Avengers. Angie lives in Ortonville, MI with her husband Jerry.
Why Angie chose MIPS:
“I’m a strong believer in ‘you can’t teach every child the same way.’ This was the main reason that I left traditional public schools to work for Michigan International Prep School. The District’s belief that each child is unique and must be approached that way to unlock their potential parallels with mine. Listening to the student’s getting excited with their Mentor Teachers and Mentors about their accomplishments lets me know that I made the correct decisions to be part of this philosophy and team.”
christopher card
Director of the Arts
Mr. Christopher Card is an accomplished singer, pianist and veteran educator that has led and grown school music programs for the past 26 years. Performing groups under Mr. Card’s direction have received high honors at state and national festivals and competitions and have held an international reputation as a program of excellence. On four occasions Mr. Card’s ensembles were selected to perform at the prestigious Carnegie Hall in New York City and twice have represented the United States in performance tours in Europe. Over recent years Mr. Card’s performing groups have received six grand champion trophies at music festivals in the United States. The YouTube channel for Mr. Card’s performing groups has a worldwide audience with over 1.5 million views.
Mr. Card has directed numerous theatrical productions that have earned a reputation for bringing amateur actors to professional standards of performance. His shows are known for creative and artistic excellence which has led to record-breaking attendance with sold-out showings.
As Director of the Arts and department head of the Michigan International Prep School of Music, Mr. Card’s vision is to offer MIPS students (regardless of experience level) a premiere music education that cultivates a passion for the arts and develops students into well-rounded musicians.
Mr. Card’s approach to education is to infuse a high level of energy and enthusiasm into his teaching, while incorporating humor to keep things light. His former schools have recognized him as a master teacher who excels at drawing maximum potential out of all of his students in a caring environment.
Mr. Card holds a Bachelors degree in Music Education from Western Michigan University and a Master’s Degree in Music Education from VanderCook College of Music in Chicago, IL.
Mr. Card is happily married to his wife of 22 years, Christine. Together they enjoy raising their two children, Cullen and Ceana. He is excited to be taking on the adventure of implementing an arts program at MIPS.
Why Christopher chose MIPS:
“I am excited to be joining the phenomenal staff at MIPS with the purpose of creating an innovative online School of the Arts for MIPS students! Over the past 26 years I have discovered the potential of music to develop a student both as a person and as a performer. I am convinced that EVERY student can benefit from studying music and the arts, regardless of their prior experience or level of talent. Our exclusive music program will provide unparalleled opportunity for students to learn to create and appreciate music more than they ever thought possible.
An exciting aspect of my work at MIPS will be in creating a supportive community of peers that meet virtually and in person for social interaction and peer support. This is an element that is not always found in online education. Our extracurricular opportunities (a MIPS Rock Band, a Choir, and Theatrical productions) will provide further opportunity for students to benefit from being part of our wonderful MIPS music family of students!”
Charlie Carver
Director of Program Advancement
As the Director of Program Advancement, Charlie spearheaded the attainment of NCAA and AdvancED/Cognia accreditations. He’s also deeply involved in many facets of school compliance as well as state and federal grant programs.
Charlie has an extensive educational background. He graduated from Indiana University in 2008 with a Bachelor of Science in Secondary Education. In 2011, he was awarded a Master of Science in Educational Leadership from Purdue University. Finally, he acquired a Masters of Arts degree in Educational Technology from Central Michigan University in 2016.
Charlie served as the principal at NexTech High School of Lansing from 2012-2018, before becoming part of the MIPS team. He now resides in Howell with his wife Kallie and their sons, Maverick and Callahan. Charlie's favorite day of the year is graduation – there are few things as rewarding as seeing the look of accomplishment on a student’s face as they’re handed a diploma.
In his free time, Charlie passionately follows Big Ten athletics.
Why Charlie chose MIPS:
“I joined Michigan International Prep School because I am a big believer in school choice and that a highly engaging and effective school program can make all the difference in a young person’s life. Your zip code should not determine your education and MIPS lives and breathes that everyday by serving students and families all across our wonderful state!
The flexibility and freedom of a program such as this provide students such wonderful avenues to use their time to pursue a musical or athletic interest, work, volunteer, intern, or even start their own business! When students are given autonomy and ownership of their learning and time, amazing things happen.”
Logan Dean
Director of Mentoring Services
Logan is a passionate about connecting with students and helping them to bring out the best in themselves. He has a bachelor's in Education Studies from Western Governors University, and is certified to teach Earth and Space Science, as well as Business. He also has a BBA concentrated in operations management and worked for 8 years in the automotive industry at General Motors. This helped him learn a systematic approach - a skill set he hopes to instill in students with regard to their educational goals.
Logan’s favorite leisure activities are grilling, cooking, playing/watching sports, and most of all spending quality time with his wife and son. He believes the most important things in life are family and having passion in everything you do.
Why Logan chose MIPS:
“My reason for joining the MIPS team is that their vision on education aligns with mine. I have a strong belief that education should be personalized for every student. Having a unique learning style myself, I know that every student learns differently and their education should reflect that. I’ve seen MIPS make this a reality with personalized education. Every interaction at this school is personalized. I’ve seen MIPS unlock a higher potential in students by giving them learning flexibility and tools they’ve never had. I believe in this approach to education and my passion will make the students believe in themselves too.”
Ben Hoppe
Marketing & Communications Director
Ben Hoppe serves as Marketing Communications Director for MIPS, and oversees all branding, content creation, and school-wide communications.
Mr. Hoppe holds an MBA from Purdue Global University, as well as a Bachelor of Music in Guitar Performance from Cornerstone University in Grand Rapids, MI. He also studied performance and songwriting at the Contemporary Music Center in Nashville, TN.
In his free time, Ben enjoys songwriting, music production, art, soccer, and reading.
Why Ben chose MIPS:
“I believe the future of education lies in unique, custom-fit training. I personally was much more interested in creative, artistic pursuits, so I can relate to students whose interests don’t particularly align with traditional academia. At MIPS, we resist the tendency to make education a uniform, ultra-standardized experience. No two kids are the same, and we don’t feel that it makes sense to treat them as if they are. I’m proud to be a part of an organization that runs on integrity, excellence, and a genuine care for the success of students as unique, talented individuals. It’s a privilege to serve with these people!”
Lucas Peless
Executive Director of College & Career Advancement
As Executive Director of College and Career Advancement, Mr. Peless is responsible for creating new and innovative opportunities for MIPS students. He’s an enthusiastic visionary with a persistent ambition to grow and innovate our programs in order to better serve students. Whether he’s mapping big-picture staff development initiatives, or working one-on-one with a fifth-grader, his driving mission is to level the playing field for students and to eliminate whatever barriers stand between them and success.
Mr. Peless spent seven years teaching in rural Alaska and Utah, and seven additional years serving as assistant principal in Bangor Township and as Director of Bangor Township Virtual School. He also served as director of Great Lakes Bay Early College. He has an Education Specialist (Ed.S.) in Educational Leadership from Utah State University, a Master of Science (M.S.) in Curriculum, Instruction, and Assessment from Walden University, and a Bachelor of Science (B.S.) in English Education and History Education from Brigham Young University in Idaho.
Lucas is married to Kristin and has five children, one delusional dog, and one cat. Goats and rabbits are also on the wish list. He enjoys triathlons, reading, and beekeeping.
Roy sovis
Director of Curriculum & Instruction
Roy Sovis is the Director of Curriculum and Instruction at the Michigan International Prep School (MIPS). He has a passion for leading and fostering relationships that increase our collective capacity to improve student achievement. He is committed to the development of curriculum and effective instructional practices that teach students to learn how to learn, learn how to think, and begin to successfully navigate the complexities of life.
After completing his undergraduate work at the University of Michigan-Flint, he spent seven years as a classroom teacher and department chair. During that time, he earned a Master's Degree from Michigan State University in Instructional Design and Educational Technology which equipped him to become a Coordinator for Instruction, serving and leading numerous school districts in Mid-Michigan as well as others across the state. As part of that position, Roy was the State Coordinator for the National Student/Parent Mock Election and received 2 National CNN Awards for Utilization of Media and/or Technology in Voter Education, 2 American Association of School Administrators Awards for Outstanding Leadership in Voter Education, and was the recipient of the Presidential Certificate of Appreciation for dedicated service and teamwork.
His expertise includes curriculum development, instructional design, and summative assessment development. For eleven years, he taught a Formative Assessment series which he co-authored which led numerous districts to “level up” their assessment systems in order to improve student achievement.
Having earned a second Masters Degree online through the University of Phoenix in Administration and Supervision, which required projects with students from other countries, Roy brings to MIPS a great deal of experience with online education. He is a certified cognitive coach and has experience Cognitive Coaching™ superintendents, curriculum directors, support staff, and classroom teachers, helping them hone their skills as self-monitoring, self-directed learners and leaders.
Roy was very excited to join the MIPS team because of our philosophy of being a “school of one” that believes every student matters, is unique, and has potential to do great things. He thoroughly enjoys doing whatever it takes to customize services so families and their students can thrive!
Roy has been married to his best friend Pam for almost 30 years. They have three children, one granddaughter, and four cats. They love spending time with their family, traveling, and hosting family and friends in their home.
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