Glenn Maleyko Appointed Michigan State Superintendent

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

STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE GRANDRAPIDS WRITER

The GRAND RAPIDS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREGrandRapids.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Grand Rapids, Kent 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 ArtPrize, Festival of the Arts, and World of Winter. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Grand Rapids Chamber of Commerce and Grand Rapids Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in furniture, healthcare, and technology that power the local economy such as Steelcase, Spectrum Health, and Meijer. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HERENorthville.com, HERENovi.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.

Tagged , , , , ,