DEARBORN — Dearborn Public Schools Supt. Brian Whiston is one of six semifinalists for the state of Michigan superintendent position.
The news broke when a list was released March 3 with Whiston making the cut. The field was narrowed down from 54 applicants to six.
The other five semifinalist candidates include Marshall Public Schools Supt. Randall Davism; Alan Ingram, deputy commissioner of the Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education; Livonia Public Schools Supt. Randy Liepa; Oakland Schools Supt. Vickie Markavitch; and Washtenaw Intermediate School District Supt. Scott Menzel.
Whiston joined the Dearborn Public Schools in 2008 developing award-winning programs for students and passing a $70 million bond proposal for infrastructure needs.
“I am here to serve the students in our classrooms, to meet their educational needs, and provide each of them with a quality learning experience,” Whiston said. “My mission to serve children will not change whether I am superintendent in Dearborn or if I am provided with the opportunity as state superintendent.”
Whiston is no stranger to the idea as he was named State Superintendent of the Year in last year, but that didn’t make his decision easy.
“When I was asked by the search firm working for the state board to submit my resume I was honored to be considered, but the decision was difficult as I was not seeking a position with any other school district,” he said. “I am committed to the work we are doing here in Dearborn, proud to be superintendent of this district and enjoy being a member of the community.”
Whiston credits his accomplishments to strong leadership from the school board, the expertise of his administrative team and the professionalism and hard work of all staff members in the district.
“Superintendent Whiston’s leadership has brought about substantial progress in several areas throughout the district,” School Board President Aimee Schoelles said.
“Being asked to interview for this position is really recognition of the accomplishments being made here in Dearborn.”
Whiston’s contract with the district runs through the end of the 2016-17 school year. The state Board of Education will conduct public interviews beginning next week.