Dr. José Leyba is a native Arizonan, received his Bachelor of Arts Degree at Arizona State University (ASU), and began his teaching career at the junior high level where he taught English, Social Studies and remedial Math. He also completed both Master’s and Doctorate in Educational Administration and Supervision at ASU. Dr. Leyba’s career can best be summarized by his global expertise in operational and theoretical knowledge of the P-20 concept, systemic reform, change leadership, and executive mentoring and coaching of school leaders. 

After 32 successful years in public education Dr. Leyba retired in September, 2008 to pursue his passion of assisting those in the education community. He has served in a consultant & volunteer role for the Cesar Chavez Education Institute and volunteers extensively with education non-profits assisting with Board Development, fundraising, and professional development.

Stacy Stout

Stacy Stout was born and raised in West Michigan and has made Grand Rapids, MI her home where she recently accepted the position of Dean of Students at Burton Middle School with Grand Rapids Public Schools, after serving as the Education Director for seven years with the Hispanic Center of Western Michigan overseeing adult and youth education services, parent leadership and engagement, and early learning initiatives to increase academic attainment among the Hispanic community.

In her current role, Ms. Stout oversees the 6th grade academy and assist students with the critical transition from elementary to middle school, implements positive behavior and dropout prevention strategies for the entire school, and serves on a work group to leverage Latino/a student resiliency for academic success and a committee to streamline systems to identify early warning indicators for dropping out of school, so students and families receive the appropriate interventions.