I grew up on a farm outside of Wellsville, KS. I attended Ottawa University on a football scholarship and graduated in 1988 with a BA in Education. I started my teaching career in Pomona, KS moved to Pleasanton, KS and then to Garden City, KS. I attended FHSU while teaching and coaching at Garden City, KS and received my Master's Degree in 1997. I have been a teacher, coach, principal and superintendent for 34 years. I was the 7-12 principal, then superintendent, at Central Heights USD 288. I spent 14 years as superintendent of Clay Co. Schools in Clay Center. The last 3 years, I have been superintendent in Hutchinson. I plan to retire from education at the year of the 2021-2022 school year.
My wife Micca and I have three grown kids and two granddaughters. Our middle daughter, Katie, graduated from FHSU with a Nursing Degree in 2018.
What do you now do for a living? How did you end up choosing this career path?
I'm currently the superintendent in USD 308 Hutchinson Public Schools. I got into education because of the positive impact my teachers and coaches had on me in Wellsville. I moved to administration after family and colleagues recommended I do so to make an impact on more students and families. Education has been a rewarding profession and an excellent profession to raise a family in. I have been the beneficiary of working with wonderful students, staff and families in every district I have worked in.
Why did you choose to attend FHSU?
FHSU had the reputation of being very accommodating for teachers pursuing an advanced degree. Living in Garden City, it was a perfect fit for me to finish my Master's Degree. Also, my wife's family had multiple generations of FHSU graduates. My in-laws, sister-in-law, brother-in-law and other friends had attended FHSU.
What are your favorite memories from your time as a student?
Having Dr. Slattery and Dr. Stehno as professors during my time was excellent. They made learning fun and applicable! I enjoyed the collegiality and relationships built with educators from all over Western KS.
What advice do you have for current or prospective FHSU students?
Finish the race and don't let circumstances, or others, try to negate the value of a FHSU education. Growing up on a farm, where neither of my parents graduated from high school, and not having a strong academic background myself, several people doubted I would graduate from college, or later become an administrator. Remember it is about attitude, work-ethic and staying the course on your goals; not where you started or came from.
In what ways are you proud to be a Tiger?
FHSU was the springboard for me professionally. Without their flexibility for those wanting to attain an advanced degree in Western KS, I would not be where I am today.
You can read more about Michael's retirement announcement here.
Do you have a Fort Hays State University experience to share? Submit your FHSU Alumni Spotlight information to be featured.