Traverse Bay Area Intermediate School District (TBAISD) board members unanimously voted to select a new superintendent at a special meeting Monday night.

Dr. Nicholas Ceglarek (pictured), superintendent of Hudsonville Public Schools, was offered the position after two interviews with the board, tours of TBAISD programs, and meetings with regional superintendents and TBAISD staff. Ceglarek was one of four candidates narrowed down from a pool of 26 applicants seeking to replace Superintendent Michael Hill, who is retiring effective December 31. Board members authorized President Joe Fisher to enter into contract negotiations to secure Ceglarek’s employment. 
 
“It is an honor to be selected as the next TBAISD superintendent," Ceglarek said in a written statement. "I hope to provide servant leadership to our local school districts, TBAISD staff, community, and students within our region for years to come."
 
Ceglarek requested during the interview phase to be allowed to finish out the 2017-18 school year at Hudsonville Public Schools, offering board members a transition plan to facilitate his move from that district to TBAISD. Board members agreed to the request and will seek an interim superintendent to fill the position from January 1 to June 30.
 
“Nick is well respected across the state and comes with a wealth of knowledge, demonstrated leadership ability, and a desire to inspire others as he serves our students and community," said Board President Joe Fisher in a statement. "We couldn’t be more pleased with the results of our search and feel confident we have hired one of the best superintendents in Michigan to lead the Traverse Bay region.”
 
At their November 7 regular meeting, TBAISD board members will finalize Ceglarek’s contract and review next steps in the district’s transitional leadership plan.