Tefs leaving as Wooster schools superintendent
Dr. Michael Tefs
The Wooster City School District will have a new face in the position of superintendent for the 2021-22 school year. Dr. Michael Tefs is departing the lead role after accepting the superintendent position at Revere Local Schools in Summit County. His final day with the district will be June 30.
Tefs has led the district for the past 13 years, taking responsibility for a $58 million annual budget, 520 employees and 3,700 students. He is the 22nd superintendent in the history of Wooster City Schools.
“This decision is certainly bittersweet,” Tefs said. “Wooster is an amazing place with a wonderfully creative, caring and dedicated group of employees. I will deeply, deeply miss our employees, who are far more like friends than colleagues. I’ll miss our City of Wooster colleagues, present/past board of education members, and the many, many educational partners we have developed around town that assist in supporting the growth and development of Wooster’s youth.”
Tefs’ tenure in Wooster has been marked with many accomplishments. Perhaps most pivotal is the culture, climate and growth mindset for continuous improvement. Additionally, Tefs’ devotion to advancing elementary-level literacy and numeracy across the school district is evident. Wooster has added literacy and mathematics coaching and provided professional-development opportunities for teachers, which has built confidence and improved student achievement.
“I truly believe the future is incredibly bright for the Wooster City Schools and the timing is right for a change in leadership,” Tefs said. “We are in a terrific fiscal position, and the next superintendent will be able to further develop social-emotional programming for students, master facilities planning and high school academic pathways.”
Prior to his appointment as Wooster superintendent, Tefs held various roles in education, serving as an assistant superintendent, curriculum director, principal and science teacher. He also is an accomplished speaker/presenter and has published multiple articles related to school improvement and leadership.
“We are deeply indebted to Dr. Tefs for his years of service to Wooster City Schools. His impact and influence on students and our community is immeasurable,” said Sue Herman, Wooster City School District Board of Education president. “His leadership transcends far beyond the Wooster city limits.”
The board will immediately begin a search for Tefs’ replacement and will communicate a public time line in the near future.