News Summary
The Michigan State Board of Education has officially appointed Glenn Maleyko as the next state superintendent, effective December 8, 2025. Currently serving as the superintendent of Dearborn Public Schools, Maleyko signed a three-year contract with an annual salary of $272,000. His appointment follows the upcoming retirement of Michael Rice on October 3, 2025, and he will focus on addressing critical educational challenges, particularly in literacy rates in Michigan. Maleyko has over 30 years of experience and a proven record of leadership in education.
Lansing, Michigan – The Michigan State Board of Education has appointed Glenn Maleyko as the next state superintendent, effective December 8, 2025. Maleyko, who currently serves as the superintendent for Dearborn Public Schools, signed a three-year contract on September 16, 2025, which will see him earning an annual salary of $272,000.
The appointment comes as the current state superintendent, Michael Rice, is set to retire on October 3, 2025. In the interim period, Sue Carnell will step in as the interim superintendent starting October 3 until Maleyko assumes his new role.
In August, Maleyko was selected through a 5-3 vote from three finalists during a board meeting. The other candidates in contention were Lisa Coons, a former state superintendent from Virginia, and Judy Walton, the superintendent of Harrison Community Schools.
Maleyko expressed enthusiasm about the opportunity and highlighted the importance of supporting children, families, and educators across Michigan. He acknowledged the commitment from local districts, the Michigan Department of Education, and the State Board of Education in enhancing student achievement.
Recent Education Challenges
Maleyko’s appointment arrives in a context of criticism regarding school performance, particularly concerning literacy rates in Michigan. Recent state test results indicated slight academic gains; however, they also revealed that third grade English language arts scores had dropped to an 11-year low. This situation has drawn attention from Democratic Governor Gretchen Whitmer, who underlined the urgent need to address the literacy crisis in the state.
Maleyko’s Experience and Achievements
With over 30 years of experience in the Dearborn Public Schools district, which ranks as the third-largest in Michigan by enrollment, Maleyko’s career has included roles as a building principal, central office administrator, and superintendent since 2015. Under his leadership, Dearborn Public Schools achieved a remarkable 95% graduation rate, and six of its schools received U.S. Department of Education Blue Ribbon honors.
Maleyko holds a doctorate in philosophy in educational leadership and policy studies from Wayne State University, accompanied by multiple degrees in educational leadership and instruction from University of Detroit Mercy. Additionally, he recently served as the president of the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators for the 2023-24 school year, further enhancing his credentials in educational leadership.
Looking Ahead
As Maleyko prepares to take on his new role as state superintendent, his focus will likely center on addressing the pressing issues affecting literacy and overall student performance in Michigan schools. His extensive experience and proven track record in the educational sector will be critical as he embarks on this important leadership position amid ongoing challenges in the state’s educational landscape.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
- Michigan Advance: Glenn Maleyko Michigan’s Next State Superintendent
- Detroit News: New Superintendent Has Chance to Turn Michigan Around
- CBS News: Michigan Education Board Glenn Maleyko Contract State Superintendent
- Detroit Free Press: Glenn Maleyko to be State Education Leader
- Click On Detroit: Glenn Maleyko Selected to Lead Michigan’s Public Education System
- Wikipedia: Glenn Maleyko
- Google Search: Michigan Education
- Google Scholar: Glenn Maleyko
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Education in Michigan
- Google News: Glenn Maleyko
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.
