Press Release #18 /2018-19
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Nov. 12, 2018
Contact: David Mustonen, Communications Director
(313) 827-3006 MustonD@dearbornschools.org
Cathy Bacile, MASA Communications & Marketing Director
(517) 281-2979 ccunningham@gomasa.org
Dearborn’s Glenn Maleyko Named Superintendent Of The Year
Dearborn Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko has been named the Superintendent of the Year by the Michigan Association of School Administrators (MASA). Chris Wigent, Executive Director of MASA and Randy Liepa, Superintendent, Wayne RESA, delivered the good news to Maleyko at the Monday, Nov. 12 Board of Education meeting.
“Dearborn Schools is a wonderful place to be. This is a wonderful community. This award really belongs to the whole school community,” said Maleyko after the announcement was made.
This school year marks the start of Maleyko’s fourth year as superintendent in the 21,000 student district. The award recognizes his hard work, leadership, innovation and collaborative efforts.
“Dr. Glenn Maleyko has proven himself to be an outstanding leader for Dearborn Public Schools, and I am honored to present him with the 2019 Michigan Superintendent of the Year Award,” Wigent said. “Always putting students first, Dr. Maleyko cares deeply about their success, which has paid off in many areas including an increase in rising graduation rates. His vision and careful strategic planning are leading to greater success for the students in Dearborn, as well as the educators who nurture their academic development. In addition, his leadership in the district’s social media presence is impressive and demonstrates his willingness to ensure that there is a strong connection between the school district and the community.”
During Maleyko’s tenure, Dearborn Public School has had two schools named by the Department of Education as National Blue Ribbon Schools, and the District was named a District of Distinction by District Administrator Magazine. Graduation rates have continued to improve and reached 95 percent in 2017.
The Superintendent’s initiatives include reorganizing administrative responsibilities so schools are grouped by the high school they feed into, which helps educators better see their role in ensuring each student’s ultimate academic success. He has also successfully implemented the strategic plan and uses those goals to drive the work of the district.
One of Maleyko’s favorite accomplishments is the creation of the Superintendent’s Student Advisory Council. Now in its third year, this group of about 15 high school students meets regularly with the superintendent and other key administrators to share their perspectives on district issues and discuss how to better meet student needs.
“On a daily basis, Dr. Maleyko demonstrates an authentic interest in the Dearborn community and parents of students he serves. He genuinely takes responsibility for, embraces opportunities, celebrates and advocates for Dearborn schools and students,” said Maysam Alie-Bazzi, executive director of staff and student services. Maleyko believes in academic excellence for all students with an emphasis on social and behavioral development, she added.
Alie-Bazzi led the drive to nominate Maleyko for the award. The application included praise from dozens of representative across the community.
“Glenn is an enthusiastic, forward-thinking superintendent who has boundless energy and drive. He sees options and opportunities, not obstacles,” said School Board Trustee Mary Petlichkoff.
Even Dearborn Mayor John B. O’Reilly, Jr. supported Dr. Maleyko’s nomination.
“I know he also is deeply committed to the success of every student in the district and is one of the most accessible superintendents I have ever encountered. He believes in transparency and is well known for his ‘selfies with the superintendent,’ his informal outreach that inspires goodwill across all ages,” Mayor O’Reilly wrote.
Among those in the audience for the presentation were Maleyko’s family, former school board members and Beth Whiston, wife of the late Brian Whiston, who served as Dearborn Schools superintendent before leaving to lead the Michigan Department of Education. Brian Whiston was named Superintendent of the Year in 2014 while in Dearborn.
“This award really belongs to Brian, as well. He was my mentor,” Maleyko told the audience and Mrs. Whiston.
A panel of distinguished judges selected Maleyko from a pool of highly qualified nominees. The Michigan Superintendent of the Year is recognized for strong leadership, creativity in successfully meeting the needs of students, communication skills, professionalism, community involvement, and student success during that person’s tenure. By being a state Superintendent of the Year, Maleyko is automatically eligible to become National Superintendent of the Year.
“As a lifelong resident of Dearborn, Dearborn Schools graduate, and Dearborn Schools employee, I know how fortunate our District and our community is to have a superintendent as conscientious, reflective, and student-focused as Dr. Maleyko,” Alie-Bazzi said.
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Photo caption
PR 18 Supt of the year – Dearborn Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Glenn Maleyko (center) was named 2018 Superintendent of the Year during the school board meeting on Nov. 12. Also pictured is, left, Chris Wigent, executive director of the Michigan Association of School Administrators, and Randy Liepa Wayne RESA superintendent.