Meet Paul Carver
As a native Arizonan, I have witnessed our state’s evolution from a land of enterprising self-reliance to one where every election cycle brings us closer to ideals of dependency that don’t align with our roots. Arizona has always embodied the spirit of the Wild West—not wild as in chaotic, but wild with limitless opportunities. Growing up here taught me that while we have the God-given ability to create the lives we desire, success requires determination, resilience, and the willingness to overcome adversity. The greater the challenge, the greater the reward.
Paul Carver, an American Servant
This mindset prepared me to follow in my father’s footsteps and join the United States Marine Corps, where I faced daily physical and mental challenges that shaped my character and solidified my resolve. It was during these experiences that I learned the importance of perseverance and the enduring value of our Constitution. I remain deeply committed to the oath I took to defend our nation against all enemies, foreign and domestic—a commitment that continues to guide my service today.
Education has always been a cornerstone of my life. Inspired by my great-grandmother, a teacher in the Valley who instilled a love of learning in her family, I pursued my own educational journey later in life. Balancing full-time work and fatherhood, I earned my associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees in business administration. I proved to my children—and myself—that perseverance leads to success. Education isn’t just about academics; it’s about the journey, the lessons learned along the way, and the example we set for the next generation.
Living a Life of Purpose
As a father of eight, I know that children are our most vital resource and greatest responsibility. Their innocence must be preserved, their curiosity nurtured, and their potential unlocked. That belief has driven me to be deeply involved in their lives, whether as a Little League coach, a Scoutmaster, or a youth leader. Every child deserves a strong foundation of values, character, and opportunity.
In 1996, I faced one of my greatest personal challenges: a life-threatening medical condition that required starting over at 26. Told I might not survive surgery, never have more children, and face significant physical limitations, I could have given up. Instead, I made a choice: to fight, rebuild, and pursue a life of purpose. That experience taught me that no life is wasted unless we choose to waste it.
Deer Valley Unified School District President
This perspective has guided my leadership on the DVUSD school board and now as its president. Over the past four years, I’ve worked tirelessly to prioritize fiscal responsibility, academic achievement, and transparency. I’ve focused on ensuring that every decision reflects the best interests of our students, teachers, and community. As I seek reelection, I remain committed to preserving our values, protecting parental rights, and providing the next generation with the tools they need to succeed.
Arizona is a land of opportunity, but it is also a land that requires vigilance and dedication to keep it that way. As board president, I’ve demonstrated my commitment to standing up for what is right and defending our district’s integrity. Together, we can ensure that DVUSD remains a place where students thrive, parents are heard, and the community prospers.
Let’s continue the work we’ve started. If you live in DVUSD, I humbly ask for your support in 2026 to keep our district on the path of excellence and opportunity.
– Paul Carver Jr.
Learn more about Deer Valley Unified School Board on the official website.