Whittemore-Prescott Area Schools - Superintendent Vacancy Posting
The Whittemore-Prescott Schools Board of Education is seeking a Superintendent to begin work July 1, 2026.
Whittemore-Prescott is a rural district with an enrollment of 564 students in beautiful northern Michigan with an operating budget of about $9.5 million. Community members embrace the school district, have high standards for their children, and are very supportive. The District offers a comprehensive program and strives to meet the needs of all learners.
The Board of Education is seeking a superintendent who is a strong leader with an extensive background in K-12 education and will be an effective communicator with staff/community. This educational leader will actively work with the Board and community to set and reach goals, be an instructional leader, and be a creative problem solver. The new superintendent should be ethical, honest, knowledgeable, and friendly.
Board of Education
Mary Phinney, President
Janet Smith, Vice-President
Dennis Parent, Secretary
Sue Sheehan, Treasurer
April Harkey-Mason, Trustee
Kelli Vohwinkle, Trustee
Michele Thorson, Trustee
District Information
Student Enrollment: 564
Teachers: 41
Administrators: 3
Other Support: 9
Support Staff: 43
State Foundation Funding: $10,050 2025-2026 General Fund Budget: Revenue $9,274,133 Expenses $9,781,573
Fund Balance percentage as of June 30, 2025 28.36%
Non-Homestead Taxable Value: 140,101,872
Non-Homestead Millage: 18 Mills
Debt Millage: 3.25
Minimum Qualifications:
• Minimum of three to five years prior administrative experience in education
• Valid State of Michigan School Administrator Certification
• Experience with budget development/management/governance/negotiations
• Master’s Degree in a related field
Salary and Contract Information
The Board of Education will offer a competitive wage and benefit package that reflects the experience and education of the candidate chosen as the next Superintendent with a minimum salary of $115,000.
For additional information about our district, visit our website at https://www.wpas.net
Application Procedure
Interested candidates should apply through email or hard copy materials to:
James Cain, Search Facilitator
Iosco RESA
27 N. Rempert Road Tawas City, MI 48763
Email: jcain@ioscoresa.net
Phone: (989) 362-3006 extension 1130
Completed applications must be received no later than 3:00 PM on March 10, 2026. Candidates are asked not to reach out to the Board of Education; any questions should be directed to James Cain. Candidate names will not be announced until after they have agreed to be interviewed.
Please include a current resume, letter of interest outlining ability to meet the qualifications, official transcripts, three current professional letters of recommendation, and a list of professional references.
Search Timeline
Application Deadline: March 10, 2026
Application Review by Board of Education: March 16, 2026
First Round Interviews: April 20 and 21, 2026 Second Round Interviews/Opportunity to Select Superintendent: April 28, 2026
Start Date: July 1, 2026
Whittemore-Prescott Area Schools Superintendent Selection Criteria
The Whittemore -Prescott Area School District is seeking a strong, collaborative leader to work with the Board of Education, staff, and community to create a successful educational experience for all students. The Board has identified the following criteria for selecting its next superintendent:
VISION
• Works with the Board of Education to identify and establish both short-term and long-term goals.
•Can lead and inspire others toward the shared district vision.
•Demonstrates effective skills with technology and can integrate into instruction.
PROFESSIONAL
•Possesses a strong background in K-12 education, instruction and administration. •Record of success in past positions including improving achievement for all students.
• Has a collaborative leadership style.
• Uses a data-based strategy approach in the decision-making process.
• Able to improve instruction through professional development of staff.
• Actively engages and responds to the community.
• Advocates for public education at the local, county, and state levels.
MANAGEMENT
• Able to adapt and succeed in a small school environment.
• Effectively oversees the budget.
• Collaborates with staff including labor relations and negotiations.
• Effectively explains district decisions and follows through.
• Recognizes, values and affirms all staff.
• Ensures the excellent management of operations and facilities.
PERSONAL QUALITIES
• Honest, ethical, straightforward in all matters.
• Skilled listener and effective communicator.
• Visible, approachable, and accessible to staff, students and community.
• Treats others with empathy and respect.
• Has strong leadership skills that can bring people together toward common goals.
• Willing to become a part of the community.
• Attends school and community events regularly.
Whittemore-Prescott Area Schools does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex (including sexual orientation and transgender identity), disability, age, religion, height, weight, marital or family status, military status, ancestry, genetic information or any other legally protected category, (collectively, "Protected Classes"), in its programs and activities, including employment opportunities.
Title IX and 504 Coordinator: Superintendent, 8970 Prescott Rd., PO Box 250, Whittemore, MI 48770; 989-756-2500.