News Summary
Glenn Maleyko, superintendent of Dearborn Public Schools, has been appointed by the Michigan State Board of Education to serve as the next state superintendent. His selection follows a close vote, amidst scrutiny of Michigan’s education system performance. With concerns over literacy and student achievement, Maleyko’s leadership is expected to address these critical issues. He is set to assume his new role on October 4, following the retirement of Michael Rice.
LANSING, MI – Glenn Maleyko, the current superintendent of Dearborn Public Schools, has been appointed by the Michigan State Board of Education to be the next state superintendent of schools. His appointment is contingent on final contract negotiations and an upcoming vote by the board, scheduled for September 9. Maleyko will take over the role formerly held by Michael Rice, who is set to retire on October 3.
The decision to choose Maleyko comes amid considerable scrutiny of Michigan’s education system, particularly in light of alarming student performance metrics. Recent data from the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) highlighted that only 24% of fourth and eighth graders in Michigan are proficient in reading. This statistic underscores the critical challenges facing the state regarding educational outcomes and literacy improvement.
Maleyko received the board’s endorsement in a close 5-3 vote. Dissenting votes came from Republicans Tom McMillin and Nikki Snyder, in addition to Democrat Mitchell Robinson. During the selection process, the board evaluated three finalists, engaging in two-hour interviews with each candidate – Lisa Coons and Judy Walton were also considered. Although Coons’ initial plan for the position garnered positive feedback, it was not compelling enough to secure her the top spot.
Board President Pamela Pugh acknowledged Maleyko’s extensive relationships and network throughout the state, emphasizing his readiness to tackle the pressing literacy issues identified by experts. In his previous role in Dearborn since 2015, Maleyko gained recognition as the Michigan Superintendent of the Year in 2019, further establishing his credentials in educational leadership.
Addressing concerns highlighted during the selection process, some board members expressed reservations about Maleyko’s preparation for the interview and suggested there were biases that may have influenced the decision in his favor. Snyder specifically pointed out the perceived favoritism during the candidate selection process.
The Michigan State Board of Education plans to continue discussions with their search firm regarding the specifics of Maleyko’s contract at the upcoming meeting on September 9. If negotiations proceed smoothly, he is expected to officially commence his duties on October 4, immediately following Rice’s retirement.
Maleyko’s anticipated leadership comes at a critical juncture for Michigan’s educational landscape, which is grappling with significant challenges such as low academic achievement rates and high absenteeism among students. Stakeholders in the education sector are hopeful that his experience and proactive approach will yield positive changes in these areas and enhance student outcomes across the state.
As the new state superintendent, Maleyko has indicated a strong commitment to ensuring that education has a lasting positive impact on students. His focus on recent legislative measures aimed at improving literacy indicates a willingness to engage with contemporary educational issues head-on. With many watching closely, his upcoming tenure will be closely scrutinized as he seeks to address the urgent needs presented by the current educational climate in Michigan.
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Additional Resources
- Detroit News: Glenn Maleyko chosen as Michigan’s next state superintendent
- CBS News: Birmingham Public Schools teacher strike
- Detroit Free Press: New school year in Detroit
- Michigan Advance: Detroit schools face funding cuts
- Detroit Free Press: First day of school 2025
- Wikipedia: Michigan Public Schools
Author: STAFF HERE DETROITMI WRITER
DETROIT STAFF WRITER The DETROIT STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDetroitMI.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Detroit, Wayne County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Movement Electronic Music Festival, Detroit Grand Prix, and America's Thanksgiving Parade. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Detroit Regional Chamber and Focus HOPE, plus leading businesses in automotive and healthcare that power the local economy such as General Motors, Ford Motor Company, and Henry Ford Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
