The decision to hire a superintendent is not routine—it is one of the most important choices a school district will make. This person will shape the culture of our schools, influence teacher retention, and ultimately impact student success for years to come.

Based on my experience as a former teacher at Stockbridge Jr./Sr. High School, I know that strong schools depend on balance—students deserve support, but they must also be held accountable. That is why I am writing to state clearly: Teachers must be respected, heard, and protected in order to do their jobs effectively. When that balance breaks down, the entire system begins to suffer.

During my time in the district, I experienced multiple situations where that balance was not maintained.

In one instance, after providing academic feedback to a student, a parent escalated the situation by accusing me of harassment and threatening to file a complaint with the Michigan Department of Education. Rather than reinforcing academic expectations and supporting classroom standards, the outcome undermined my role as the teacher.

In another situation, after I communicated concerns about a student’s disruptive behavior, that student made a direct threat to shoot me. Despite the seriousness of that threat, I was required to continue teaching the student. This was not simply a difficult situation—it was a failure of leadership to prioritize staff safety.

There were also instances where unverified student accusations were treated as credible despite prior patterns of dishonesty, and situations where efforts to address peer mistreatment—such as protecting a vulnerable student—were not supported appropriately. Over time, these patterns create a culture where teachers feel unsupported and where accountability becomes inconsistent.

These experiences are not just personal—they are indicators of leadership approach. And leadership approach matters.

A superintendent must be someone who:

• Supports and retains teachers
• Enforces consistent student accountability
• Prioritizes safety for both students and staff
• Makes fair, evidence-based decisions
• Builds trust within the school community

Our district cannot afford leadership that falls short in these areas. Stockbridge is already facing challenges with student behavior, staff morale, and retaining families. The next superintendent must be part of the solution—not a continuation of the problem.

This is not a statement made lightly. It is based on direct, professional experiences that reflect broader concerns about leadership, accountability, and staff support. I also urge members of the Stockbridge community—parents, staff, and residents—to be involved in this decision. Attend board meetings. Ask questions. Reach out to board members. This decision affects the future of your schools, your community and your property value. Your voice matters.

Leadership matters. The direction of our district depends on it.

Stockbridge deserves a superintendent who will move the district forward—with accountability, support, and a clear vision for success.

Jenn Cox