Michigan Leadership Institute
Developing, Deploying and Supporting LEADERS Across Michigan
March 2026
"Where there is Green there is Growth"
Leadership, Luck, and the Work That Matters
Around St. Patrick’s Day we often talk about luck, four-leaf clovers, lucky charms, and good fortune. It’s fun to imagine that good things happen because someone simply got lucky.
But in schools, we know something different.
Successful school years rarely happen because of luck.
They happen because of great people doing thoughtful work together.
Behind every strong school culture, every positive staff environment, and every student success story are leaders who plan carefully, support their teams, and create conditions where people can succeed.
Great schools do not stumble into success.
They build it intentionally.
Superintendents and school leaders know that positive outcomes come from:
• Thoughtful planning
• Strong relationships
• Clear expectations
• Supporting staff when the work is difficult
• Celebrating progress along the way
• Maintaining a relentless focus on students
From the outside, people sometimes call that luck.
But school principals and Superintendents know it’s really dedication, teamwork, and purpose.
This time of year, can be challenging. The excitement of the start of the year has passed, winter has been long, and everyone is working hard to finish the year strong.
That is exactly when leadership matters most.
Small gestures from leaders can lift morale, renew energy, and remind staff how valued they truly are. So, this St. Patrick’s Day, maybe the lesson isn’t about finding luck.
Maybe it’s about creating the conditions where great things happen on purpose.
Because in schools, the best outcomes rarely come from luck.
They come from great leadership and committed people working together for students.
Thank you for your intentional and thoughtful work in leading positive achievement, stability, and hope through challenging times. Your leadership makes a difference in ways that are sometimes visible and many times unseen.
I hope this issue provides a few ideas you might use or share to continue lifting yourself and others through the remainder of the school year.
A Little Lift Goes a Long Way
This time of year in schools can be challenging. The excitement of the beginning of the year has passed, winter has been long, and everyone is working hard to keep the momentum going as we move toward spring.
It is also the time of year when a small lift can make a big difference.
Sometimes that lift is simple, a quick high five in the hallway, a few encouraging words, or a moment to recognize someone’s effort. Other times it might be a handwritten note, a personal thank you, or providing lunch for a hardworking team.
These gestures may seem small, but they have a powerful impact. They remind people that their work matters and that their efforts are seen and appreciated.
Positive school cultures are often strengthened through simple acts of encouragement and appreciation. When leaders intentionally create moments that brighten someone’s day, those moments often ripple throughout the building.
And the best part is that these lifts don’t always have to come from leadership alone. Sometimes the most meaningful moments happen when everyone in the building gets involved in spreading a little sunshine, recognizing a colleague, surprising a team member, or celebrating the everyday work that keeps schools running.
As we move through the weeks ahead, here are a few ideas that may help bring some extra energy, appreciation, and positivity to your staff and school community.
Remember, sometimes the smallest gestures create the biggest smiles.
Simple Ways to Add a Little Sunshine:
High Five Friday
Start the day greeting staff with high fives or fist bumps.
Handwritten Thank-You Notes
A short personal note recognizing someone’s work can mean a lot.
Coffee Cart Surprise
Bring coffee or hot chocolate to staff in the morning.
Lunch Provided by Leadership
Provide pizza, sandwiches, or soup for staff.
The Donut Wall
Create a pegboard donut wall with a thank-you message.
Snack Cart Walkthrough
Deliver snacks to classrooms during the afternoon.
Ice Cream Cart Walkthrough
Rent an ice cream cart, bells and all and walk the halls
Staff Shout-Out Board
Create a board where staff can recognize one another.
Jeans Day Surprise
Announce a surprise jeans day.
Lucky Note Drop
Leave appreciation notes in mailboxes, on windshields, car doors, desks, etc
Positive Phone Call Home
Call a staff member simply to thank them for their work.
Popcorn Friday
Deliver popcorn to classrooms or the staff lounge.
Parking Spot of the Week
Create a fun VIP parking spot drawing.
Student Appreciation Messages
Have students write thank-you notes to staff.
Gratitude Jar
Staff can write notes thanking colleagues.
Mystery Treat Day
Drop off surprise treats during the day.
Music Play List (am/pm)
Gather staff's favorite play list and play some songs before and after school.
Sometimes the most powerful way to lift spirits in a school isn’t through a large program or initiative.
It’s through simple moments of appreciation, encouragement, and kindness.
And when those moments spread from one person to another, they can brighten an entire school community.
A little lift can go a long way. Good-Luck!
Strengthening Leadership for Today and Tomorrow
MLI ASPIRING SUPERINTENDENTS Enrollment is OPEN for “SUPES" ACADEMY 2026”!
We welcome you to ENROLL NOW!
What is the Superintendent Preparation Academy?
The Superintendent Preparation Academy is a comprehensive leadership development experience to prepare individuals who will be the next “class” of superintendent candidates – those considering the pursuit of positions in the year 2026 or thereafter. This experience will also help you grow as an educational professional regardless of your leadership position and strengthen your skills and knowledge to increase performance today and tomorrow.
Why was the Academy developed?
MLI is committed to K-12 school districts and public institutions throughout Michigan and the success of all children by developing, deploying and supporting outstanding executive leadership.
There will be an unprecedented number of superintendents retiring over the next decade. At the same time, fewer people with the necessary capacity-building experiences are aspiring to move into these critical leadership roles. In addition, the superintendency has become increasingly complex. It is critical that future superintendents have the best preparation and network possible as you take leadership of the district, and we want to help you be successful.
To see more information or register for the MLI Supes Academy, see the link and brochure below or visit the MLI website. We guarantee you will not be disappointed in the professional learning and relationships made in this experience. Please call Dr. Lisa Hagel at 810-516-9368 or email at lhagelmli@geneseeisd.org
Supporting Your Efforts, One Step at a Time
$1,000 Scholarships For Students with Leadership Skills
The Michigan Leadership Institute is committed to developing LEADERSHIP at all levels. Thanks to donations and giving to our foundation, we are able to give Seniors some financial assistance to help with their next steps in achieving their goals and dreams.
To date MLI has given away 13 scholarships across Michigan to very deserving seniors!
Education, Training and Self-Improvement are powerful tools that we truly believe our young people will use to help make our world a better place.
These Scholarships are open to any Michigan Senior based on the following criteria:
1. Student must maintain good attendance.
2. Student must possess leadership skills and ambition.
3. Student must have a GPA of 2.5 or higher
4. Student must complete the attached application.
Please encourage your young leaders to apply for the funds and be recognized!
Applications are available at the apply links and on the MLI Website.
Funds will be awarded around May 10, 2026.
Return to: Genesee County Education Foundation. Postmarked by May 1, 2026.
2413 W. Maple Avenue
Flint, Mi. 48507
OR email all pages to lhagelmli@geneseeisd.org Deadline May 1, 2026.
Other Services
There are times when you need support on goal completion or an extra set of knowledgeable hands to lead a special project. We are now supporting Safety and Crisis Planning with Dr. Livernois. He will assist you at whatever stage you may be presently at in the district. Whether you are a new or experienced superintendent or have new or experienced principals, Dr. Livernois can assist you in planning and preparing from the ground in a realistic manner for emergencies.
He can work with an individual or your entire team to accomplish the task at hand. Dr. Livernois is very self-motivated and experienced and can assist you in accomplishing your safety goals.
MLI can also support you with professional development needs, whether it is a day or yearlong strategic effort, our talented staff can work with you to create professional learning to support your needs and continuous improvement plans.
To help pull it all together and keep your district moving forward, MLI offers wonderful Strategic Planning and Curriculum support. We can facilitate from an existing Strategic Plan of help you start fresh.
Additionally, if you are stretched thin and need support on grade level or content area curriculum support, we have consultants who only focus in those areas.
Finally, if you would like support or not to be directly at the negotiations table, MLI has seasoned negotiators who have been trained in all styles of bargaining and can assist and support your team through the process.
MLI Offers FACILITATED BOARD SELF ASSESSMENTS
The goal of the process is to develop a highly functioning LEADERSHIP team. If you are interested, you can contact any MLI consultant for more information.
Resources to Share, Use or Enjoy.
Ways MLI Can Support Your District
Strategic or District Planning for Continuous Improvement
Professional Development
Negotiations, Capital Planning, Special Projects, Mentoring
Vacancies and Searches, Strategic Planning, Curriculum and Instructional Planning
Additionally, we can assist you in recruiting and replacing all key positions in your district as you focus on other important duties. Please do not hesitate to reach out for support.
(810) 591-3251 or mli@geneseeisd.org
Districts Looking For A Great Leader - VACANCIES
If you are interesting in more information or applying, please see the MLI website or contact the MLI consultant listed.
Mason County Central Schools: Superintendent Vacancy, Deadline April 17, Consultant Andy Ingall
Kenowa Hills Public Schools: Superintendent Vacancy, Deadline April 3, Consultant Andy Ingall
Richmond Community Schools: Superintendent Vacancy, Deadline April 1, Consultant John Silveri
Dearborn Public Schools Superintendent Vacancy, Deadline March 27, Consultant, John Silveri
Berrien County Administrator- County Gov. Administrator, Deadline TBA, Consultant, Chet Janik
Congratulations to these Districts for Hiring New Superintendents
Munising Public Schools - Ms. Michelle Paul
Bridgeman Schools - Mr. Thomas Reed
Harbor Springs Public Schools - Dr. Scott Korpak
More exciting new hires are in process.
Using Data to Lead Smarter: The Power of Munetrix
Today’s school leaders are asked to make increasingly complex decisions that impact students, staff, and the responsible use of public resources. Whether the conversation involves academic performance, staffing levels, financial planning, operational efficiencies, or collective bargaining considerations, district leaders must be able to access and interpret reliable information quickly and accurately.
This is where powerful data tools such as Munetrix can make a meaningful difference.
Munetrix is a comprehensive school data platform designed specifically for education leaders. The system brings together academic, financial, operational, and human resource data into one easy-to-use platform that helps leaders better understand how their districts are performing and where opportunities for improvement may exist.
For superintendents and central office leaders, Munetrix provides the ability to examine information at multiple levels—from districtwide trends to building-level data and even down to specific operational areas. This allows leaders to explore questions related to:
Academic achievement and student outcomes
Financial health and budget planning
Staffing patterns and human resource trends
Operational costs and efficiencies
Collective bargaining considerations
Program effectiveness and return on investment
By bringing these data points together in one system, Munetrix helps leaders identify patterns, ask deeper questions, and make informed decisions that support both fiscal responsibility and student success.
One of the most valuable aspects of Munetrix is its ability to help districts uncover efficiencies that may otherwise go unnoticed. When leaders have clear insight into spending patterns, staffing allocations, and program performance, they are better positioned to make thoughtful adjustments that ensure resources are being used wisely.
Ultimately, tools like Munetrix help districts save dollars in areas where efficiencies can be found, allowing those resources to be redirected toward the people and programs that matter most—staff and students.
The Michigan Leadership Institute is proud to partner with organizations that support school leaders in making informed, strategic decisions. Munetrix has become an important resource for many districts seeking to strengthen their use of data and improve transparency, planning, and performance.
For leaders who are interested in learning more about Munetrix, exploring its newest features, or seeing how the platform works in practice, additional information is available.
To learn more or schedule a demonstration, please contact:
Pete Solar
Munetrix
📧 psolar@munetrix.com
Munetrix continues to be a valuable partner in helping school leaders turn data into insight—and insight into action that benefits both students and school communities.
OUR EXPERIENCE is UNMATCHED and WE HAVE ADDED EVEN MORE EXPERTISE to HELP SUPPORT YOUR NEEDS
Ms. Sheila Alles, Former Interim State Superintendent, Deputy State Superintendent, Curriculum Specialist Livonia Public Schools: Serving Districts with MLI as a Curriculum & Instructional Specialist, Strategic Planning
Dr. Randy Liepa, Former Superintendent Wayne RESA and Livonia Public Schools Serving Districts with MLI in Millage, Bond Support, Searches, and Strategic Planning
Dr. Keely Mounger, Former Superintendent at Westwood Heights, and Coleman, Former Deputy Superintendent for Human Resources and Operations Serving Districts with MLI in Capital and Facility Planning, Negotiations, Searches
Mr. Clarence Garner, Former Superintendent Grand Blanc Schools Serving Districts with MLI in Strategic Planning Specialist
Mrs.Teresa Weatherall Neal, Former Superintendent of Grand Rapids Public Schools Serving Districts with MLI in Instructional Coach, Searches, & Culture Coaching
Mr. David Burt, Former Operations and Maintenance Director Serving Districts with MLI in Capital and Facility Planning
Dr. Debbie McFalone, Leadership Consultant Serving Districts with MLI in Professional Development in Leadership and Instructional Learning Making Meaningful and Powerful Change
Mr. Chet Janik, Former Superintendent, Leelanau County Administrator County Administrative Searches Districts, Village Leadership, Mentoring and Strategic Planning
Dr. William Webber, Former Superintendent South Redford School District, Serving Districts with MLI in Human Resources, Finance, and Negotiations
Mr. Tom Tenbrink, Former Superintendent Jenison Public Schools, Serving Districts with MLI in Searches, Culture Building, Negotiations and Bond Support
Dr. Wanda Cook-Robinson, Former Superintendent Oakland ISD, Serving Districts with Searches, Board Governance, Mentoring, Culture Building, Special Projects
Dr. Robert Livernois Former Superintendent Warren Consolidated Schools, Serving Districts with Safety Planning, Board Governance, Mentoring, Searches, Special Projects
Mr. Dave Killips, Former Superintendent Chelsea, Serving Districts with Searches on a limited basis
Regional Presidents- Executive Searches, District Support
Mr. John Silveri Former Superintendent Waterford Schools South East Michigan
Mr. Tim Stein, Former Superintendent Flushing Community Schools Central /Thumb Area
Dr. John Scholten Former Superintendent Petoskey Schools Northern Michigan
Mr. Andy Ingall, Former Superintendent Grand Haven Schools, South/ West Michigan
Mr. Pete Haines- Former Superintendent, Ottawa ISD Assoc. President, S.W. Michigan
Mrs. Lisa Hook -Administrative Assistant
Dr. Lisa Hagel, Former Superintendent at Genesee ISD and Mt. Morris Schools,
Executive Director. (810) 591-3251




