Superior Central hopes principal controversy is over
Superior Central hopes principal controversy is over
By JOHN PEPIN, Journal Munising Bureau
EBEN JUNCTION — In a community torn apart by the departure of a controversial high school principal, residents are hoping the hiring this week of a successor from downstate Cadillac will help ease the concerns of local residents living within the school district.
“We’re really excited,” said Superior Central Schools Superintendent Mary Kay Wanska. “Hopefully, our community will begin to heal.”
Former Principal Loren Vannest, whose contract was not renewed by the district, has reportedly moved on to a new job downstate.
Vannest, who had been with the district for the past three years, had been criticized for being too strict with students and had accrued several union grievances against him.
The school board voted in April not to renew Vannest’s contract. Since that time, some of his supporters have mounted a drive to try to recall school board members Tamera Shega and Jon Seppanen from office.
A clarity hearing is pending before the Alger County Election Commission Aug. 7, which will determine if proposed petition and ballot language is clear enough for voters to understand.
Meanwhile, the school board approved the hiring of Bill Saunders this week, pending background checks.
“I’m extremely excited,” Saunders said. “My family is originally from the Marquette area.”
Both of his siblings are Northern Michigan University graduates and his wife is originally from the Ironwood area.
Saunders, who is a graduate of NMU, received a master’s degree in educational leadership from Grand Valley State University in August 2005.
Since 2001, Saunders has taught a range of subjects, including world studies, integrated social studies, psychology, sociology and weightlifting at Lake City High School, located near Cadillac.
Saunders also has Lake City High varsity boys basketball, junior varsity football and freshman boys and girls basketball coaching experience. He developed a youth basketball program for third through sixth grades.
Saunders said he’s been impressed with the sacrifices a talented staff at Superior Central have made to keep the school district operating and achieving success.
“I’m extremely excited about the unique group of people who work there,” Saunders said.
Saunders said he’s also looking forward to meeting local people and working with the community.
His first official day on the job is expected to Aug. 1, although he plans to arrive in the area next week.
Previous page: John Jilbert sells his dairy
Next page: Snowdens R1 PO Box 66 mi 49807