Mark Bielang, the long-serving superintendent of Portage Public Schools, has announced his retirement effective at the end of the 2024-2025 school year, drawing a close to a 12-year term at the helm of the district. Bielang announced during the Portage Public Schools Board of Education meeting on Monday, as reported by WOODTV. His tenure saw numerous facility upgrades and efforts to improve both culture and academic achievement within the district.
"I’m really proud of what we have been able to accomplish over those years," Bielang said, referencing the advancements not just in infrastructure but also in educational culture and systemic improvement. This statement was captured by WOODTV during Monday night's meeting. Bielang expressed his readiness to retire to enjoy more time control over his own time and be with his family, as stated in a letter mentioned by MLive.
Randy Van Antwerp, president of the PPS School Board, commended Bielang for his attention to modernizing aging buildings and fostering a positive district climate. Van Antwerp also highlighted Bielang's pivotal role during the COVID-19 pandemic, according to information from an MLive report. As part of his farewell, Bielang wrote, "It has truly been an honor to contribute to the growth and success of Portage Public Schools, and I leave knowing that the district is in good hands," in a letter as quoted by WWMT News.
