News Photo by Crystal Nelson David Rabbideau, former assistant superintendent of Harper Woods Schools, today participates in the second round of Alpena Public Schools interviews for superintendent via the videoconferencing software Zoom.

ALPENA — The Alpena Public Schools Board of Education today voted unanimously to hire David Rabbideau as the district’s next superintendent.

Rabbideau, former assistant superintendent of Harper Woods Schools, accepted the position in a phone call broadcast during the board’s videoconferenced meeting, saying the hire is the highlight of his career.

“I can’t wait to join you and start leading the district together,” Rabbideau said.

Rich Ramsey, the consultant with the Michigan Association of School Boards hired to help APS with its search, said contract negotiations could take a week or two.

Candidates Meaghan Gauthier, APS assistant superintendent of instruction, and Dorothy Blackwell, superintendent of Vassar Public Schools, were also invited back for a second round of interviews today.

Ramsey told the board he had checked all of Rabbideau’s references, who were able to confirm that Rabbideau’s position was eliminated after a new superintendent was selected for the Harper Woods school district.

APS board Vice President Stacey Parr and Trustee Steven Donajkowski said Ramsey’s research eliminated any concerns they had about Rabbideau.

Trustees were impressed with how much research Rabbideau did on the district and the community, including reading through three years of board minutes.

Donajkowki, who gave Rabbideau a tour of the school district on Tuesday, described him as a “breath of fresh air.”

Board President Gordon Snow said he liked that Rabbideau really listened during his visit to Alpena on Tuesday.

“I’m well satisfied with both of his interviews,” Trustee Mike Barnett said.

Each applicant had 90 minutes to answer 13 questions and describe what they would accomplish in their first 90 days in the district. Candidates were also able to ask the board one question each.

Rabbideau crafted his 90-day plan around the district’s newly adopted strategic plan and 21st century graduate program.

In the first 90 days, Rabbideau said he would focus on introducing himself and building relationships, learning about the district and community, and engagement and planning.

As superintendent, he said he plans to walk the hallways and visit the classrooms, celebrating the wins and supporting the needs.

Rabbideau told the board that education and family are important in his life. He said he met his wife while they were both teachers and they have five children.

Trustees spoke highly of Gauthier, but had concerns she didn’t have enough teaching experience or experience with district finances, and trustees said she needs to delegate more.

Trustees said they enjoyed Blackwell’s enthusiasm and passion for education, but, overall, did not feel that she did enough research on the district.

Crystal Nelson can be reached at 989-358-5687 or cnelson@thealpenanews.com.