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WALKERVILLE — The Walkerville Public Schools Board of Education has voted unanimously to advance Wendy Maynard-Somers as the sole finalist in its search for the district’s next superintendent.
Maynard-Somers will interview with the board at 6 p.m. on Tuesday, Oct. 6, in the board room.
“The board received a total of six applications for the position. Of that pool, Ms. Maynard-Somers was the only candidate with prior experience serving as a superintendent, a distinction that set her apart in the board’s review of qualifications,” states a press release from the school district. “She brings seven years of superintendent experience at Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools (2017–2024), where she led the district through day-to-day operations and long-term strategic priorities. She is well versed in the challenges and opportunities of leading a small school district.
“Board members engaged in extended deliberation before reaching their decision. After hearing from all board members, the board concluded that Maynard-Somers’ experience and background made her the clear choice to move forward, and the vote to name her as sole finalist was unanimous.
“The board is committed to a transparent and inclusive process as it finalizes its selection. Community members are encouraged to attend the Oct. 6 interview and will have the opportunity to submit feedback for the board’s consideration before a final hiring decision is made.”
The position became vacant when Joe Conkle resigned last July after accepting the position of assistant principal of the Newaygo County RESA (Regional Educational Service Agency) Career and Technical Education (CTE) program. Conkle was hired as the superintendent/principal in July of 2023. John Oleson, an educator from New Underwood, S.D., was hired July 30 as Walkerville’s principal.
Retired Pentwater Public School Superintendent Scott Karaptian has been filling in as Walkerville’s interim superintendent.
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