12/13/2006

Suttons Bay names new leader

TC principal to become superintendent

By Christine Finger

cfinger@record-eagle.com

SUTTONS BAY — A Traverse City school administrator is the top choice to become the next superintendent of Suttons Bay Public Schools.

Board members on Monday unanimously voted to offer the job to Mike Murray, principal at Traverse City Central High School, contingent on negotiation of an employment contract.

Murray was the lone finalist chosen to return this week for a second interview. The board initially planned to bring two candidates back for the second round.

Board President Steve Hall said Murray was the best choice for Suttons Bay because of his familiarity with northern Michigan and his experience as principal at elementary, middle and high schools.

"He's really run through the different levels,” Hall said.

Other finalists interviewed last week were Chet Janik, superintendent of Buckley Community School; Colleen Johnson, principal of Zeeland West High School; and David LaPrairie, principal at Kalamazoo Loy Norrix High School.

Murray started working for Traverse City Area Public Schools in 1992 as principal of Traverse City East Junior High before moving to Central. He said he is eager to work in another community where residents are involved with their schools.

"I see that as a real bonus in Suttons Bay,” he said.

Jim Leyndyke, athletic director for Traverse City Area Public Schools, has served part time since May as Suttons Bay's interim superintendent. He filled a vacancy left in April when former superintendent Tom Harwood left for a new job.

The board's tentative plan calls for having the new superintendent on site by Feb. 1.