Derek completed his undergraduate degree at Kalamazoo College in 1997. He earned a bachelor of arts degree with a major in economics and a minor in mathematics. Derek was awarded honors on his Senior Individualized Project regarding teaching in economics.
After graduation, Derek taught mathematics at three different high schools: Fitzgerald High School in Warren, Covert High School, and Portage Northern High School.
He also coached soccer at Fitzgerald and Covert High School. While he was teaching at Portage Northern, he went back to get his legal degree at nights from WMU Cooley Law School.
He graduated with honors in 2018 and earned the book award twice while enrolled.
Derek lives in Portage with his wife and two kids. His wife, Nikki is a special education teacher. Derek enjoys coaching his sons in soccer and also playing when he gets a chance. Derek is a board member and coach for the Portage Soccer Club.The family enjoys the many beaches of Michigan and has taken up a family hobby of fishing when they get a chance.