Meet GreatSchools: David Buxton

We'd like to introduce David Buxton, our vice president of technology. David comes to us with a wide scope of technology and management experience — most recently as chief technology officer at a stealth startup in San Francisco. Prior to that, he spent a number of years at Adobe Systems and Macromedia in various director and engineering manager roles. Since his arrival in March, David's been crucial to our efforts in revitalizing our article design and functionality.

What inspires you about the GreatSchools mission?
David: I firmly believe that the most important factor in developing well-rounded, productive members of society is parental involvement. As a relatively new parent myself, I know how tough it can be to juggle the responsibilities of work and home and still find the time to be the best parent possible. GreatSchools takes the desire that all parents should share — the desire to do the very best for our children — and encourages, educates and reassures us that we really are making a difference.

Who in your childhood most inspired your love of learning?
David: My mother was a teacher, and many of my earliest memories are of her reading to me or helping me read to her and patiently answering my questions. From an early age, I was encouraged to ask questions and learn about my environment, and I soon understood how doing so can lead to a more perceptive life.

What's the best parenting advice you've heard?
David: I don't think I've ever received as much advice (solicited or otherwise) as when I first became a parent. Some of it was useful — some of it definitely wasn't — but the best advice was to take it all with a pinch of salt and follow my instincts.

Thanks, David! If you were going to offer advice of your own, what would it be?
David: Parents are the most influential people in a child's life, so remember to use that influence for the good of your child. Aspire to be the type of person that you would be proud to see your child become, and consistently exhibit those personal values and qualities.