Saying “it has become abundantly clear that staying in Lapeer is what is best for me and my family,” the man who had been selected to be the next Superintendent at Berrien RESA has told the board in Berrien Springs he will not be the replacement for long-time Superintendent Dr. Kevin Ivers after all.
Matthew Wandrie, Superintendent of Lapeer Community Schools, was announced more than four months ago as Ivers’ replacement at Berrien RESA, but dispatched communications to the Berrien RESA Board of Education this week that he has decided not to assume the role.
In a letter received Wednesday, Wandrie says, “It is with a heavy heart that I inform you that I have made the difficult decision to remain in my current position as Superintendent of Lapeer Community Schools,” adding, “Being considered and ultimately offered the job of leading Berrien RESA is one of the great honors of my life, but it has become abundantly clear that staying in Lapeer is what is best for me and my family.”
While the Berrien RESA board says they are disappointed, they respect Wandrie’s decision.
Berrien RESA Board of Education President Cathy Bair says, “While the timing is not ideal, we appreciate Mr. Wandrie’s honesty,” and adds, “During the interview process, it was clear that Mr. Wandrie was very enthusiastic about joining the Berrien RESA team and serving our local school districts. He had wonderful ideas and we were very eager to watch him continue to grow and develop the organization. I imagine this must have been a very difficult decision for him and his family. We wish him the very best.”
The Board will schedule a special meeting soon to determine next steps. Details will be announced as they are developed.
Dr. Kevin Ivers, Berrien RESA’s current leader, will retire effective June 30. He has served as the superintendent for 10 years.
