OKEMOS — Okemos Public Schools Superintendent John Hood is retiring after seven years in the role and 30 years overall with the district, he announced on Nov. 11.
Hood, who was named superintendent in the fall of 2018 and officially started the role on Jan. 1, 2019, will step down on March 25, 2026, he said in a letter to the community.
“After nearly thirty fulfilling years of service — beginning as an intern, then teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and finally superintendent — I have made the heartfelt decision to retire, with March 25, 2026, as my last day.”
Hood joined Okemos Public Schools in 1995 as a sixth- and seventh-grade teacher at Chippewa Middle School. He later spent time as principal at both Edgewood and Wardcliff elementary schools and was later assistant superintendent for instruction.
He replaced Alena Zachery-Ross in 2019, who served a year in the district’s top job, with a unanimous vote from the Okemos Board of Education.
The board in December 2023 gave Hood a raise from $175,389 to $241,475, part of an effort by the district to increase pay for administrators and staff to make the district competitive with the market and reflect Okemos’ status as a “top-tier school.” Niche, a school ratings site, ranked Okemos as the fourth best district in Michigan for 2024.
The district has not announced plans for a search.
Hood’s retirement opens up what is likely the second high-profile superintendent job in the region. Lansing School District Superintendent Ben Shuldiner is in contract negotiations with Seattle Public Schools, the largest public school district in Washington state, to lead that district.
Here’s Hood’s full letter to the community:
“Dear Okemos Community:
“After nearly thirty fulfilling years of service — beginning as an intern, then teacher, principal, assistant superintendent, and finally superintendent — I have made the heartfelt decision to retire, with March 25, 2026, as my last day.
“Watching students explore, learn, and grow is incredibly rewarding. Their curiosity, resilience, and enthusiasm remind us every day why what we do matters; they are the reason our teachers and staff pour their hearts into our schools each day.
“Over the years, I’ve had the privilege of working alongside our incredible staff across every part of the district. Their dedication, expertise, and care create an environment where students are empowered to be learners for life. From buses to offices, classrooms to cafeterias, to athletic fields and performing arts stages, I witnessed countless moments that reflect the passion, commitment, and the far-reaching impact our staff has on the lives of students.
“Equally inspiring are our families, neighbors, and local businesses and organizations who support and uplift our schools every day. Your partnership is central to our success, and makes Okemos a truly special place for students.
“I am incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together, and thank you for your genuine support and collaboration over the years. Serving this extraordinary community has been a profoundly rewarding experience, one that I will always cherish. It has truly been an honor to serve you.”
This article originally appeared on Lansing State Journal: Okemos Superintendent John Hood retiring after 30 years in the district
Reporting by Lansing State Journal staff / Lansing State Journal
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