Arriving back at Corunna Middle School after their meeting, Principal Ingrid Dettman and Corunna Public Schools’ Superintendent John Fattal found no students or staff in classrooms. When they walked into the gymnasium it was packed with the entire CMS student body, staff and CPS community members. There, Wendy Zdeb, Executive Director of the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals, made the surprise announcement that Dettman has been selected as Michigan’s 2025-26 Middle School Principal of the Year and the gymnasium erupted in celebratory cheers.
“Ingrid Dettman embodies the qualities of an exceptional leader — visionary, compassionate, and deeply committed to her students and staff,” Zdeb said. “Her dedication to fostering a positive school culture and academic excellence makes her truly deserving of this recognition.”
The award honors principals who exemplify collaborative leadership, excellence in curriculum and instruction, and meaningful engagement with students, staff, and families.
“There’s no one more deserving than Ingrid,” said Fattal, who nominated Dettman for the honor.
Throughout her 22 years at Corunna Middle School, including five as principal, Dettman has earned widespread respect for her leadership.
“Some of her most outstanding qualities are that she is inclusive, familial, integrous and efficacious,” said Kristy Walters Flynn, EdD, Corunna Public Schools Special Education Teacher.
Parents, teachers and students alike praised her ability to foster a culture of positivity and inclusivity.
“Her tireless efforts in creating a safe, nurturing environment have not only benefited the school but have also left a lasting positive impact on our students’ lives,” said Rachel Hannah, CMS Special Education Teacher.
Dettman’s leadership is reflected in several initiatives she’s involved in or runs at CMS, including, but not limited to: professional learning communities, social emotional learning committees, individualized education program meetings for students, safety planning, positive behavioral interventions and supports, inclusivity, diversity, and a culture of continuous improvement.
“She fosters a team atmosphere where everyone is expected to help each other accomplish our goals,” Walters said.
Dettman has been instrumental in building strong partnerships with families and the wider community, ensuring all students have the support they need to thrive.
“My son, Ezra, has very complex medical needs that often require extra care. Mrs. Dettman has gone above and beyond time and time again to ensure that my son is taken care of physically, academically and emotionally each and every day,” CMS parent Jill Mack said.
With 28 years in education, Dettman is described as passionate, empathetic, encouraging, insightful, fair and unwavering in her focus on student and staff mental and physical well-being.
“Ingrid puts her heart and soul into being our building’s fearless leader,” CMS Teacher Sara Mills said. “Ingrid’s leadership has created a family culture within the halls of CMS and it truly is a joy to work with someone who cares so passionately for everyone.”
The CPS community had an outpouring of support for Dettman’s nomination with more than 20 letters of recommendation that included personal stories and accolades about Dettman.
“I feel valued, appreciated, accepted, recognized and most of all, I feel like a part of a family,” CMS Paraprofessional Tami Sawyer said.
CMS Math Teacher Amy Lee Galesk shared similar sentiments.
“Mrs. Dettman takes care of us and protects us like we are family,” Galesk said.
Dettman will represent Michigan as the state’s nominee for the National Association of Secondary School Principals’ Middle School Principal of the Year award competition, with the national award to be presented in July 2025 during the Recognition Gala at NASSP’s Conference.
“We are thrilled to see Ingrid Dettman honored in such a meaningful way,” Zdeb said. “Her leadership has left an indelible mark on Corunna Middle School, and we are proud to have her represent Michigan on the national stage.”
About Administrator of the Year Award Programs: For more information about the NASSP National Principal of the Year program, visit www.nassp.org/poy. For more information on MASSP and MASC/MAHS’s Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year programs, visit massp.com/poty.