Michael Hawkins is a practicing attorney with nearly three decades of experience working in public education solving real-world operational challenges. As a former public school district-level administrator, Mike brings an on-the-ground perspective to legal matters involving school operations, employee and personnel issues, student rights, discipline, and special education. 

Mike’s experience in public education includes service as an Assistant Superintendent and Chief Operating Officer, where he was responsible for business operations, facilities planning and management, contract administration, construction project oversight, dispute resolution, and advising on bond and tax levy issues. This background helps him quickly separate what is truly urgent from what is simply loud, then guide leadership teams toward solutions that are both legally sound and workable in practice. 

School leaders often call Mike when an issue hits fast, such as a discipline situation, a special education question, a staff concern, or an escalating parent conflict. He’s known for being responsive and steady under pressure, helping districts act confidently, communicate clearly, and minimize disruption, especially in moments when reputation and trust are on the line. 

Mike also has a strong interest in empowering educators to use legal counsel more effectively. He believes the best outcomes happen when administrators and teachers understand how board policy, state and federal requirements, and everyday school decisions connect, so legal risk becomes something districts can manage proactively, not fearfully.