Northville Public Schools superintendent to step down after 37 years with school district

The superintendent who has led Northville Public Schools through the turbulent COVID-19 pandemic and helped oversee landscape-changing improvements with the $104.85 million raised by a successful 2017 bond proposal has announced plans to retire at the conclusion of the 2021-22 school year.

Mary Kay Gallagher, who has been employed at multiple levels by the school district since 1985, revealed her intentions in a Dec. 1 email to all school district families.

"It is with mixed emotion and a deep sense of gratitude for the opportunity to learn, lead and grow with this tremendous school community that I notify you of my intent to retire," Gallagher shared in her email. 

"Throughout these past 37 years, I have had the honor of working with and learning from a tremendous cadre of educators, mentors, colleagues, board members, staff, parents, families, community partners, and perhaps most of all, our students ... who have inspired me, challenged me to grow as an educator and a human being, and have contributed to Northville Public Schools’ longstanding tradition of excellence."

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Gallagher's career in education commenced in April  1985. Her roles have ranged from early childhood program coordinator, principal of Moraine Elementary School, assistant superintendent for instructional services and superintendent.

"As difficult as it is for me to write this letter, I look forward to the opportunity to spend more time with my family, have more flexibility with my time, and find other ways to contribute to this great community," Gallagher added.

Gallagher asserted her early announcement "provides ample time for the board of education — with the input of the staff, students, families and community — to conduct a thorough search and selection process and a thoughtful leadership transition."

The Northville Board of Education announced at its Nov. 30 committee of the whole meeting that it will develop and issue a request for proposals from superintendent search firms in the coming weeks.

Gallagher earned a bachelor's degree in elementary education and teaching from Michigan State University in 1983. She earned a master of arts degree in K-12 administration from MSU in 1988.

Contact reporter Ed Wright at eawright@hometownlife.com or 517-375-1113.