About Andy



Andy Baan has proudly called Virginia Beach home for over 25 years and is the father of two children educated in Virginia Beach Public Schools—one a recent graduate and another a current student. As a parent of a child with special needs, Andy understands intimately that children learn in different ways and succeed when taught to each student’s ability level. He believes schools must remain focused on academic excellence and student achievement—not personal political agendas.

Andy is a retired Navy Captain and his career was rooted in servant leadership and education. He was the commanding officer of multiple units and throughout his naval career. One unit he commanded was named “Best Small Unit in Nation” -- the Leo Bilger Award. His career also included a deployment to Iraq where he earned a Bronze Star for his performance in a war zone.

As a contractor, he worked as an educator—developing curriculum, planning and executing complex missions, and training future leaders. While overseas, he volunteered as a teacher of elementary school children, helping non-native French-speaking children learn the English language. In addition to his military service, Andy’s experience as an attorney, and cybersecurity consultant equips him with the knowledge required to help govern Virginia Beach Public. Schools—a $1.2 billion organization. Andy brings a proven commitment to service, accountability, and educational excellence to ensure every student has the opportunity to reach their full potential.

His Volunteering and Accomplishments are: *ODU’s Maritime School Advisory Council, Member *Rotary Club of Hampton Roads, President *Virginia Beach Military Economic Advisory Committee, Appointee

*Judeo-Christian Outreach Center, Volunteer *Hampton Roads World Affairs Council, Board Member *Eagle Scout

Education:

*M.S.-Cybersecurity: Norfolk State University *M.A-National Security and Strategic Studies: Naval War College

*J.D.-Dickinson School of Law, Penn State

*B.A.-University of Notre Dame