Steeby Elementary Principal Mike Haverdink is on medical leave from the Wayland Union school district.
Superintendent Norman Taylor confirmed that Haverdink is on leave after being asked why the latter was not present Monday night during a recognition of Steeby as a National Distinguished School, an award the elementary received just two weeks ago. A woman said to be acting principal was at the meeting in his stead.
It was not disclosed what Haverdink’s medical issues are, nor how long he will be missing.
Haverdink is in his fifth year as Steeby principal. He started his career in education as a social studies teacher and joined the Wayland district as an assistant principal at the high school.
He earned a bachelor of science degree in history in 1994 from Western Michigan University and a master of arts in educational leadership from WMU in 2000.
He has been a professional in education now for 23 years, 19 as an administrator.
