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Godfrey-Lee board names new superintendent

Michael Burde comes to Godfrey-Lee from Kenowa Hills Public Schools

Godfrey-Lee — The search for a new superintendent in Godfrey-Lee is over.

After reviewing applicants, conducting two rounds of interviews and consulting with the staff and community, the Godfrey-Lee Public Schools Board of Education has selected Dr. Michael Burde as the next superintendent of schools. 

Burde is currently the deputy superintendent for Kenowa Hills Public Schools, where he’s served for nearly 10 years.

“My time at Kenowa Hills has inspired me and taught me so much about the important work of reaching each and every student who we are fortunate to serve,” Burde said. “As I think ahead to serving the students and community at Godfrey-Lee, I feel honored to be a part of their future. The district is made up of hard-working staff members, dedicated families and, most importantly, students who are eager to learn.”

Board of Education President Eric Mockerman said he was “pleased to announce the successful completion of an exhaustive search for this critical role.”

“It’s an important decision for our children and community, and one our board did not take lightly,” Mockerman said. “Dr. Burde represents a solid match for the needs in our schools. We’re eager to begin a long relationship with our new school leader!”

Burde will officially begin his new role on Jan. 3, 2022, and will work alongside Interim Superintendent Dirk Weeldreyer as he transitions out of the district. Weeldreyer has been at the helm since July, when former superintendent Kevin Polston left to lead neighboring Kentwood Public Schools. 

Mockerman also expressed his thanks, on behalf of the board, for Weeldreyer’s leadership during his time at Godfrey-Lee.

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Alexis Stark
Alexis Stark
Alexis Stark is a reporter covering Byron Center, Caledonia, Godfrey-Lee, Kenowa Hills and Thornapple Kellogg. She grew up in metro Detroit and her journalism journey brought her west to Grand Rapids via Michigan State University where she covered features and campus news for The State News. She also co-authored three 100-question guides to increase understanding and awareness of various human identities, through the MSU School of Journalism. Following graduation, she worked as a beat reporter for The Ann Arbor News, covering stories on education, community, prison arts and poetry, before finding her calling in education reporting and landing at SNN. Alexis is also the author of a poetry chapbook, “Learning to Sleep in the Middle of the Bed.”

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