Youth Soccer Leader Tom Faro Elected Milan Area Schools Board President

Jonathan Turner
Jan 24
3 min read

NATIONAL SOCCER NEWS: www.nationalsoccernetwork.com

The Milan Area Schools Board of Education officially began a new chapter in leadership on January 14, 2026, unanimously electing Tom Faro as Board President. Faro, a trustee since 2020, succeeds Andrew Cislo after five years in the role and brings with him a leadership background that extends well beyond the classroom and into the soccer community across Michigan and the Midwest.

A Strategic Transition Backed by Mentorship

The leadership change was part of a planned transition proposed by Cislo, who does not intend to seek re-election this November. To ensure continuity, Cislo recommended that Faro step into the presidency now, allowing for mentorship and collaboration during Faro’s first year as president.

“I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to Mr. Cislo for his dedicated service as our Board President over the past five years,” Faro said following the vote. “I am deeply appreciative of his leadership and grateful for his mentorship. I am honored by the trust my fellow Board members have placed in me and look forward to continuing our partnership with Mr. McMahon, our community, and our exceptional teachers and staff.”

From the Boardroom to the Pitch

Faro is no stranger to leadership roles. He previously served three years as the board’s Treasurer and one year as Vice President, gaining valuable administrative experience. Outside of education, Faro is widely known in the soccer world as the Executive Director of the Michigan State Youth Soccer Association (MSYSA), where he oversees one of the largest youth soccer organizations in the country.

In his role with MSYSA, Faro helps guide player development initiatives, coach education, referee programs, and club support structures that impact tens of thousands of players statewide. His experience managing large-scale sports organizations brings a unique perspective to school leadership, particularly in areas such as athletics, student engagement, and community partnerships.

Advocacy, Athletics, and District Priorities

As Faro begins his term, the board remains focused on academic excellence, safe learning environments, and strong personnel leadership. The January 14 meeting also featured emotional testimony from district paraprofessionals and administrative assistants advocating for competitive wages and improved contract terms. Faro thanked those who spoke, acknowledging the importance of listening to voices across the district — a value he has emphasized throughout his career in youth sports leadership.

Community Connection On and Off the Field

Open communication remains a priority for the board in 2026 through the continuation of the “Big Red Board Chats.” These sessions allow community members to meet directly with board representatives in an informal setting. For the upcoming year, the chats will be held at Symons Elementary School to improve accessibility. Scheduled sessions include Tuesday, February 10, 2026, and Thursday, April 16, 2026, both beginning at 6:30 p.m.

2026 Leadership Cabinet

Joining Faro in leading the district for one-year terms are Vice President Dr. Carrie Karvonen-Gutierrez, Treasurer Michelle Heikka, and Secretary Sara Meray. The organizational meeting concluded with the board reaffirming its commitment to the Michigan Association of School Boards’ Code of Ethics, pledging to work collaboratively and serve the community with integrity, professionalism, and respect — values that mirror Faro’s leadership philosophy both in education and in soccer.

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