As we prepare to welcome our students back on the first day of school, I want to take a moment to share how excited and grateful I am to begin this school year as superintendent of Stockbridge Community Schools. It is such an honor.

When people ask me why I have dedicated my career to Stockbridge, my answer has always been the same: the people. For the past 20 years, this community has been my professional home. I have been blessed to serve as a teacher, coach, Junior/Senior High School principal, and now superintendent.

My connection to this district is deeply personal. My father, Robert Trapp, graduated from Stockbridge High School in 1969. This past spring, I had the privilege of watching my daughter graduate with the Class of 2026, and my son continues his educational journey as a current sophomore here. As both a parent and an educator, I understand the trust families place in our schools every day. That perspective motivates me to ensure every student receives an outstanding education while feeling supported, valued, and connected.

Our upcoming school year brings exciting leadership transitions that position us well for the future.

• Meghan Kunzelman is returning to the Junior/Senior High School and stepping into the role of principal. For Meghan, this transition feels like “coming home,” as she has spent 17 of her 20 years in education serving at the secondary level. Meghan’s transition to this new role is made smoother because of her previous experience in this building as the Jr. High principal and athletic director.
• Josh Nichols is the new Junior/Senior High School student support specialist. In this role, he will focus on our Postive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) framework and investing in the success of our students. Josh is a fantastic example of a leader who brings creativity and honest reflection to a whole new level.
• Julie White is moving to the position of Heritage School principal. Julie is excited to make this transition, as the bulk of her education experience has been with upper elementary and middle school students, teachers, and families. She will be a familiar face for our Smith students who had the pleasure of knowing her last year when she joined our district as principal.

We are also thrilled to welcome two new hires to the Stockbridge leadership team.

• Nicole Greiter is our new Smith principal and early childhood director. Nicole joins us with extensive expertise from her time as the director of early childhood instruction for Ingham ISD. She is passionate about investing in children from birth to age eight and brings expertise in preschool, literacy and family engagement.
• Dan Stafford is the district’s new athletic director. Dan brings a wealth of experience, having served as an athletic director previously in both Charlotte and Holt. He is committed to developing a positive school environment where all students can reach their potential, and he has a proven track record of collaborating with stakeholders to improve athletic programs.

In addition to these leadership changes, we are thrilled to welcome several outstanding teachers and support staff members to Stockbridge Community Schools. Every new employee brings unique experiences, fresh ideas, and a passion for serving our students. Together, we strive to make our district such a special place to learn and grow. I hope our community will join me in welcoming each of them to the Panther family and sharing in some refreshments at our Meet & Greet on Monday, Aug. 10, at 5:45 p.m. in the Junior/Senior High School cafeteria!

Next, our Open Houses will be held on Wednesday, Aug. 12. These are always a highlight as students meet their teachers and reconnect with friends.

Finally, we are eager to welcome everyone back for the first day of school on Wednesday, Aug. 19.

Together, we look forward to another incredible year of learning, growth, and celebration with all of you.

We are Stockbridge. Go Panthers!

Jeff Trapp

Superintendent

Stockbridge Community Schools