I was born Joan Yasenchak in Dearborn, Michigan,
to blue-collar, Roman Catholic, Polish/Slovak parents who were
second-generation Americans. My parents taught me what they
believed; they believed in strong family values, the power of the
human spirit, the importance of education and acceptance of all
people….values I still believe in today. I also know that it is my
responsibility as an individual to contribute to my community. I
acquired my strong work ethic from my father, my spirit and
determination from my mother.
From the first day of Kindergarten with Mrs. Shane, I
knew that I wanted to be a teacher. In order to achieve that goal,
I went to Eastern Michigan University to receive my Bachelor of Arts
Degree in Elementary Education in 1971, and a few years later my
Master of Arts Degree in Educational Leadership. I continued my
education by taking my doctoral classes at Wayne State University.
During that time in 1972 I married my college
sweetheart Fred Gebhardt. I also was hired into my first teaching
position in the Taylor School District. Teaching positions were as
scarce as they are now, but I was determined to teach and be an
advocate for children.
After 10 years teaching in various elementary grade
levels, I was appointed an elementary principal in 1979 and had the
distinction of being the youngest female principal in the history of
the Taylor School District. Soon afterward my children, Steven and
Jennifer, were born in 1981 and 1984, respectfully.
Near the end of my career in Taylor, I was elected
the President of the Taylor Principals Association as the first
woman to ever serve in that role. I had always been involved in
union activities as a teacher, serving on various committees
including the political action committee. I worked on several
successful school board members and millage election campaigns. I
was also appointed as the District Coordinator for a successful bond
issue.
My last year was spent in Armada Area Schools working
with my true love – the little ones. I was appointed the Early
Elementary Principal in a K-2 elementary school and was the Director
of the Child Care and Pre-School Programs. I then retired after 31
rewarding years in public education.
I immediately volunteered for the
Granholm for Governor campaign and was
able to help elect the first female Governor in Michigan’s history.
The following year I worked for the
Michigan John Kerry for President
campaign. As the office manager/volunteer coordinator in the
Southfield Michigan office I had an important part in helping John
Kerry be victorious in the Michigan Primary.
That same fall I also became an Adjunct Professor at
Madonna University. I teach methods classes to pre-student teachers
and serve as a University Supervisor because I liked being able to
use my education skills to help students become great teachers.
In 2004 I had two wonderful events in my life. In
the race for State Representative in the 19th District of Livonia, I
captured 47% of the vote. The most important event of that year,
however, was that I became a grandma! My dear Lindsay Jean, the
light of my life, continues to bring me joy each and every day.
I was appointed by State Representative Andy Dillon
as his field representative in Livonia. Giving back to the
community is a mainstay in my life, which is why I am a candidate
for Livonia City Council.
I can be reached at:
Joan Gebhardt
35248 Leon
Livonia, MI 48150-5624
Phone & Fax: 734-522-0552
