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WALKERVILLE — Wendy Maynard-Somers, who was superintendent at Galesburg-Augusta Community Schools for seven years, has entered contract negotiations with the Walkerville Public Schools Board of Education for the part-time superintendent job.
The school board voted unanimously Tuesday evening, Oct. 6, to enter contract negotiations with Maynard-Somers.
The board unanimously approved last month to advance her as the sole finalist in its search for the district’s next superintendent.
The board received six applications for the position, and Maynard-Somers was the only candidate with prior superintendent experience.
“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,” states a press release from the school district.
“Ms. Maynard brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to public education, having served for many years as a teacher, principal, curriculum director and superintendent. After a distinguished career, she retired to spend more time with her family and to enjoy the family farm. The opportunity to serve Walkerville as a part-time superintendent intrigued her, and she still feels she has a great deal to give by supporting a district and its community.
“Throuhout the interview process, Ms. Maynard-Somers emphasized the importance of building strong relationships, lifting up the many successes within the district, and continuing to foster a sense of pride. She expressed a genuine appreciation for Walkerville’s mission and shared her commitment to ensuring that everyone in the district ‘lives each day’ with purpose, belonging and opportunity.”
“Walkerville is a special place,” she said. “I was impressed by the district’s strong sense of community, its commitment to its students, and its clear mission. I look forward to working alongside the board, staff, families and community to build on the district’s strengths and ensure that every student, every staff member, every family feels valued, supported, and empowered—each and every day.”
“Ms. Maynard-Somers brings a unique combination of experience, wisdom, and a genuine passion for public education,” states the school board. “We are excited to begin contract negotiations and look forward to the positive impact she will make in our district. The board looks forward to finalizing a contract and sharing additional details soon. We are grateful to all of the candidates who expressed interest in this important leadership role.”
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. West Michigan Education Foundation conducted Walkerville’s superintendent search.
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