Wayland Board Treasurer announces her resignation

The Wayland Union School District this year is losing two of its top three administrators and now two members of the Board of Education.

The latest departure, by Board Treasurer Toni Ordway, was announced at Monday night’s meeting, where she said her resignation is effective May 28. The remaining members voted to have interviews for her successor at a special meeting at 5 p.m. Monday, May 23.

Her announcement follows the loss in January of Trustee Jason Shane, who also gave as a reason moving outside the district. Superintendent Dr. Christina Hinds resigned to take a job at Grand Rapids Northview and Assistant Superintendent for Finances and Operations Patricia Velie in March announced she will retire at the end of the year.

And this doesn’t include the retirements of high school principal Tom Cutler and middle school assistant principal T.J. Restau. However, their positions since have been filled by Santino DiCesare as high school principal, Karyll Russell from Sparta at the middle school and Justin Hudson from Allegan to replace DiCesare.

And, of course, Dr. Hinds will be succeeded June 20 by Tim Reeves.

Board President Dan Casini commented on Ordway’s resignation announcement as, “When she first joined the board she was a powerful force and she still is today.”

Board Vice President Pete Zondervan insisted that Ordway be able to provide insights into the selection of her successor.

Those interested in the position are urged to indicate so by the end of the day Thursday, May 19, by contacting the superintendent’s office by phone at (269) 792-2181 or by e-mail to Theresa Dobry. Interviews and discussions will begin at 5 p.m. Monday, May 23, and the work session will follow.

The person selected will serve at least until the end of year and will be eligible to seek a four-year term in the November general election.