Michigan's educational landscape received a shot in the arm with the announcement that the State Board of Education has put its faith in Dr. Glenn M. Maleyko, entrusting him with the mantle of state superintendent. Current superintendent of Dearborn Public Schools, Dr. Maleyko will inherit a position swaddled in expectations. He is stepping up from leading the state's third largest school district to assuming statewide education responsibilities on October 4, filling the shoes of the retiring State Superintendent Dr. Michael F. Rice.
The decision, reached after a meticulous search, involves Dr. Maleyko edging out a pool of 33 applicants, which eventually boiled down to just three people. The other two contenders in the race were Dr. Lisa Coons, a past Virginia state superintendent of public instruction, and Dr. Judy Walton, who wore the dual hat of superintendent and curriculum director for Harrison Community Schools. Dr. Maleyko's climb up the educational ladder comes after a commendable tenure as Dearborn superintendent, where local graduation rates soared to 95%, and six schools earned Blue Ribbon honors from the U.S. Department of Education.
President of the State Board of Education, Dr. Pamela Pugh, heralded Dr. Maleyko's acceptance, underscoring his readiness to lead and the unifying effect of his leadership. "Dr. Maleyko has a proven record of implementing initiatives that provide meaningful support to both students and educators," Dr. Pugh expressed in a statement made by the Michigan government's official website. She emphasized that his initiatives align with the state's strategic educational aspirations and priorities, notably those aimed at bolstering literacy among Michigan's youth.
With a robust three-decade portfolio in education, which comprises roles as central administrator, building principal, and classroom teacher, Dr. Maleyko is more than just a seasoned veteran. He carries a wealth of experience and academic heft, brandishing credentials from respected institutions such as Wayne State University and University of Detroit Mercy. Beyond his academic and administrative acumen, Dr. Maleyko is also tireless in his advocacy, having chaired English learner committee and contributed to the steering committee for the Top 10 Strategic Education Plan.
