Meet Manchester Community School’s new superintendent!
Brad Bezeau
By Claire Pajka
The Manchester Community Schools board meeting to select a new Superintendent took place on June 1 over Facebook Live, and the full video is accessible under the videos tab on the Manchester Community School’s Facebook page.
Two candidates, Eric McCalla and Brad Bezeau, were interviewed for the position of Superintendent of Manchester Community Schools. They fielded questions ranging from the restructuring of administrative roles and staff evaluations to previous administrative decisions regarding race, diversity, and inclusion. Furthermore, each candidate explained their plans for the first 30 days as superintendent, as well as their long-term visions for Manchester Community Schools.
After interviewing each candidate, the board took time to discuss among themselves, carefully considering the best interest of the students. Arguments from the board in support of Bezeau cited his strong communication skills, diverse background working at different levels of the education system, and experience in virtual learning – especially with the uncertainty in the coming school year and COVID-19. In support of McCalla, the board noted history and familiarity with the staff and district, as well as his consistent dependability to staff and commitment to the community.
After an original leaning of 5-2 Bezeau/McCalla, Vice President Chris Fegan reminded the board that the students are the true voice of the schools, and that they have expressed their support for Mr. Bezeau as their first choice. Furthermore, Fegan reiterated that decisions from the board should ultimately be made in the best interest of the students while acknowledging the students’ opinions. After final comments and deliberation, the board unanimously voted to nominate Brad Bezeau as the next superintendent of Manchester Community Schools with a vote of 7-0.
Bezeau holds a bachelor’s degree in Science in Education from Central Michigan University with a major in Biology and a minor in Chemistry, a master’s degree in Guidance and Counseling from Eastern Michigan University, and is a PhD candidate at Eastern Michigan University defending his dissertation this month. In his twenty-four year career in public education, he has worked with students ranging from early childhood through high school age, and has performed the roles of biology teacher, counselor, and principal.
On his goals for Manchester Community Schools, Bezeau explained through email, “Manchester is a special place, and it is one that cares deeply about its students and kids. I hope to continue that tradition and help the schools in taking the next steps in our journey together. Increasing family engagement with our schools and promoting our district so that it continues to be a destination for families is of utmost importance to me. I will also work tirelessly in expanding the opportunities that are afforded our students so that they can continue to receive the type of schooling and training that positions them well to compete in any setting and in the next steps in their lives.”
Bezeau voiced that he is most looking forward to meeting the students and families, staff, and community of Manchester, stating, “I am about building relationships and meaningful partnerships, and I look forward to beginning my work and time with all of the stakeholders in the Manchester Schools and the Manchester community.”
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