About Dr. Butts

Dr. Michael D. Butts is a father, former teacher, assistant principal, elected school board member, and a Democrat running for Arizona Superintendent of Public Instruction. Michael’s public service began at the early age of 16, where he led an inner city kids program as a volunteer president. Driven by a passion to serve, Michael became a Cincinnati Police Officer where he served until relocating to Arizona in 2006. 

 

Following his passion for public service, Michael decided to pursue a career in education. Michael has served as a teacher and school administrator for the past 9 years in Osborn and Agua Fria Union High School districts while also serving on the board of the Arizona Association for Gifted and Talented Children. 
Michael holds a Bachelors Degree from Arizona State University and a Masters and Doctorate from Northern Arizona University. Inspired by the legacy of his great uncle, Civil Rights icon Reverend Ralph David Abernathy, Michael felt an even greater call to leadership, which led to his election to the Roosevelt School Board in 2024.