Superintendent of the Year

Thomas Maridada, a student in the Mid-Career Doctorate in Educational Leadership program and superintendent of the Inkster (Mich.) Public Schools, has been selected as the 2008 Michigan Superintendent of the Year.

Chosen from a field of seven, he was cited for his tireless efforts and "no-excuses" attitude. Under Maridada's leadership, the district has made adequate yearly progress (AYP) in all schools K-8 for two years in a row. Not only that, but for the first time in 15 years, the district saw a 100 percent graduation rate-with every graduate receiving an acceptance letter from a college or university.

In addition, he helped effect the passage of a new millage to fund a $6 capital improvement plan. According to Maridada's nomination letter, "Every building has been repaired and now every school is wireless, which allows our kids to have unprecedented access to technology. His ‘can-do' attitude has made the community catch fire with hope. Now, school performances, events and games are packed wall to wall with parents and community leaders."

In 2004, Maridada was hired as a consultant to the failing district. He was named superintendent in 2005. Before that, he served as a principal and later as director of Curriculum, Professional Development and Learning Services for Wayne County RESA.

Reflecting on his experience, Maridada has written, "Although we talk about the need for standards in schools. I have discovered that when you give children a dose of excellence, and they are allowed to think critically, unfettered, they will crave after knowledge like a man thirsts after water in a desert."