KALAMAZOO, MI (WKZO AM/FM) – Kalamazoo Public Schools superintendent Dr. Darrin Slade has been named the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators Region VII Superintendent of the Year.
Region VII includes public school and intermediate school districts in Berrien, Branch, Calhoun, Cass, Kalamazoo, St. Joseph, and Van Buren counties.
KRESA superintendent Dr. Dedrick Martin nominated Slade for the award, saying in just his first year at the helm of the district, Slade “made an indelible impact on the district and the broader community through his visionary leadership, deep commitment to equity, and unmatched dedication to communication and engagement.”
Under Slade’s leadership, Kalamazoo Public Schools has seen its graduation rate rise, improved attendance, improved achievement at all grade levels and in all content areas, increased community engagement, and experienced significant improvements in student behavior.
The award was presented as a surprise to Slade at the Region VII meeting of superintendents on May 15.
He started as KPS superintendent on July 1, 2023 and is finishing up his second academic year at the helm of the district.
Congratulations Dr. Darrin Slade!
Kalamazoo always chases away superintendents that take action against the good old boys in the administration employees. The current board is made up of people who feel honored to have a little power and appear inept in the field of education.Between the retired administrators behind the scenes and this board I guess some would be impressed by this superintendent.