Corunna Leader Named Michigan’s 2025-26 Middle School Principal of the Year
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…
Grandville Leader Named Michigan’s 2025-26 High School Principal of the Year
The entrance buzzed with excitement as Grandville Public Schools and Grandville High School staff, board members, students and special guests from the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals gathered in anticipation of Principal Adam Lancto's arrival. Returning from a meeting, Lancto was greeted with an enthusiastic surprise as MASSP announced him as Michigan’s 2025-26 High School Principal of the Year. “Adam’s commitment to collaborative leadership, innovation and personalized student support is truly…
Innovative Instruction at Forest Hills Northern High School
This year, I’ve been fortunate to visit schools across Michigan to learn about innovative practices that reimagine how students engage with learning. For me, innovation means improving existing practices —whether or not technology is involved. My recent visit to Forest Hills Northern High School perfectly captured this definition, showcasing programs that are personalized, hands-on, and deeply engaging for students. The innovation journey began several years ago when Jon Gregory, former Principal of…
Walking a Mile in Our Students’ Shoes: My Day Shadowing a 10th Grader
Written by Amy Pashak, Walled Lake Western High School Principal and MASSP Board of Directors President-Elect As the President-elect of MASSP, I've been inspired to get a firsthand look at the student experience. Recently, I spent a full day shadowing a 10th-grade student at Walled Lake Western High School. This impressive student is a positive leader in our school, active in both student leadership and on the cheer team. Shadowing her provided…
West Bloomfield Leader Named Michigan’s 2025 High School Assistant Principal of the Year
The West Bloomfield High School auditorium seats were filled with students, staff, board members, family and many individuals from the school community awaiting the arrival of their Assistant Principal, Susan (Susie) Aisner. Upon Aisner's arrival, the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals' Executive Director, Wendy Zdeb, surprised her by announcing she had been selected as the Michigan 2025 High School Assistant Principal of the Year, and the auditorium erupted in celebration. “Susie…
Gratitude and Appreciation: Building a Strong School Culture
It's no secret that educators are often underappreciated. The long hours, the emotional toll, and the constant pressure to meet standards can take a significant toll on our well-being. Yet, despite these challenges, we continue to dedicate ourselves to our students and our schools. As administrators, we have a unique opportunity to recognize and appreciate the hard work of our staff. By fostering a culture of gratitude, we can boost morale, increase…
2024 Lame Duck Preview
With the election in the books, the Michigan Legislature returned to Lansing this week and dove headfirst into what could become a busy lame duck session. Both chambers seem determined, at least for now, to finish out the 2023-24 legislative session with a bang (all three remaining weeks of it…tick tock). The House and Senate Education Committees both met, though they were far from the only committees that had school-related legislation on…
Pioneer Middle School Leader Named Michigan’s 2025 Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year
The Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals recognized Christopher Moore, Assistant Principal of Pioneer Middle School, as the 2025 Middle School Assistant Principal of the Year for Michigan. The announcement was made during a surprise celebration at the Plymouth-Canton Community Schools Board of Education meeting Nov.12, with many members of the Pioneer Middle School community present to share in the excitement. “MASSP’s Administrator of the Year awards honor leaders who demonstrate exceptional…
Leading Through Change: Our Commitment to You
The results of the election have brought out diverse emotions and questions across the nation, our state and our communities. In times of uncertainty and change, one thing remains clear: Our work as school leaders is vital to ensuring students are supported, valued and prepared to succeed in a complex world. Leadership in education is about remaining steadfast in our mission, regardless of external changes. By focusing on creating inclusive, equitable and…
Connecting Michigan’s School Leaders: A Message from Your NASSP State Coordinator
Written by Jason Messenger, Portage West Middle School Principal and MASSP Board of Directors Member As we move further into the school year, it's important to reflect on the dedication and leadership that principals across Michigan demonstrate every day. The role of a principal goes beyond managing a building; it’s about creating a positive environment where students, staff, and the community can thrive. As your NASSP State Coordinator, I want to highlight…