Rochester Schools Pick New Superintendent, Begin Contract Talks

ROCHESTER, MI — The Rochester Community School District's Board of Education voted 4-3 Wednesday night in favor of selecting Nicholas Russo as their preferred candidate for the position of superintendent, pending successful contract negotiations, according to school officials.

In a separate motion, the board members then came together and voted unanimously (7-0) in full support of Russo as the district's next superintendent, according to school officials.

"Hiring a superintendent is one of the most important jobs of this school board. As an individual member, I have my personal opinion and perspective regarding what is important when hiring one; however, our board tonight speaks as one and that voice should always be focused on a positive direction with a future focused on all the students, educators and community we serve," Vice President Barb Anness said.

The selection comes after board members met with the finalists Monday and watched them engage with students and staff while touring the district's buildings, according to school officials. The other two finalists were Dr. Stephen Bigelow and Dr. Carrie Wozniak.

"I was very pleased that we have three good candidates. These are lifelong educators. They have all demonstrated a commitment to children. These are people of good character, all three of them. I want to thank them," Trustee Jayson Blake said.

Board members noted the following qualities that influenced their decision in selecting Russo.

Anness said that she appreciated Russo’s philosophical outlook, approach to building relationships, preparedness to use the strategic plan to address individual learning needs, experience in various educational settings, human resource experience and candid demeanor while interacting with students.

Secretary Jessica Gupta said, "Mr. Russo offers a dynamic combination of leadership, having been a teacher, principal and now assistant superintendent of human resources, bringing a diversity of roles and experience to the superintendent position."

"He has a demonstrated track record of improving literacy outcomes in lower elementary, experience in an IB [International Baccalaureate®] environment, an interest in non-traditional secondary and post-secondary pathways and a passion to build strong relationships to work together productively as a team, all of which would be great assets to our district in the future," Gupta added.

President Michelle Bueltel said that she found Russo to be personable, relatable and genuine.

"I liked that he has worked in larger districts, has been a building administrator at an IB school and has worked with and been successful with interest-based bargaining. As he visited buildings, it was surprising to see how many of the staff he already knew. Mr. Russo has a broad network that I believe would serve him well as he moves into the role of superintendent," Bueltel said.

Following successful negotiations, the superintendent’s contract would be brought to the board for approval.

"The superintendent plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational landscape of our community. We look forward to Mr. Russo embracing our strategic plan and moving our district forward to provide the best education possible by meeting the needs of all learners," Bueltel said.