Wayland Union Schools will begin the 2024-2025 academic year Wednesday, Aug. 21, with a half day of classes scheduled.

Superintendent Tim Reeves has announced several changes in administrative positions to begin the new year.

The changes are:

• Rachel Cimek has taken over as principal at Wayland Middle School, succeeding the retired Carolyn Whyte. Cimek earned both her bachelor’s degree in social studies and education and her master’s in educational leadership degree from Grand Valley State University.

Cimek, who came to Wayland in 2020, taught third and fifth grades at Hopkins, was assistant principal at Dorr Elementary, and was principal last year for Baker Elementary.

Middle School Assistant Principal Andrew Augustin has been a member of the Wayland Union staff since 2021. He received his bachelor’s degree in secondary education from GVSU, his master’s degree in curriculum and educational technology from Ball State University, and his master’s in educational leadership from Central Michigan University. Augustin has worked as an assistant principal , a secondary English teacher and a coach for various sports.

There will be two new assistant principals at the high school to work with the leadership of Santino DiCesare.

• Brett VanDeRoer is new to the district, coming from Byron Center. He earned his bachelor’s degree from Calvin College, and his master’s from Western Michigan University.  He has worked as a middle school and high school science teacher, and was an assistant football coach for Byron Center.
• Karyll Russell, middle school assistant principal, joined WUS in 2022. She received her bachelor’s degree from Alma College, her master’s from MSU, and MASSP’s Path to Leadership program for administrative certificate.
• Amanda Nast, will be principal at Baker Elementary. She earned her associate degree with an emphasis on early childhood from Grand Rapids Community College, her bachelor’s degree in elementary education and language arts from Siena Heights University, and her master’s in educational leadership and administration from Walden University. While attending Siena Heights University, she was a member of the volleyball team and coached at numerous levels. She also worked as a first grade teacher and Virtual Academy Coordinator/Mentor for Otsego Public Schools.
• Steeby Elementary Principal Karri Bailey has been part of the Wayland district since 2008. Her educational background includes a bachelor’s degree in early childhood education, science and social studies from Ferris State University. She obtained her master’s in education, instruction and curriculum from Grand Valley State University, and received her elementary and secondary administrative certification through Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals. Bailey has taught for 13 years, was an assistant principal for three years, and is entering her first year as principal.
• Pine Street Elementary’s administrative team remains the same, with Robyn Robinson as principal and Mike Omness as assistant. Robin Seniura remains as principal at Dorr Elementary.