The Alpena Public Schools Board of Education has hired a new superintendent.

APS’ new leader, David Rabbideau, is a former assistant superintendent in Harper Woods, near Detroit, and has more than 15 years in instructional leadership, district administration, and classroom teaching, The News reported previously.

Rabbideau has a bachelor’s in music performance from Western Michigan University, a master’s in teaching from Marygrove College, an Educational Specialist Degree in Leadership from Oakland University, and a doctorate in educational leadership from Oakland University.

Rabbideau told the school board relationships are “critical to the success of the district” and he believes in building relationships through open communication. He spoke about being able to create and manage budgets, implementing security features, and the importance of students succeeding academically.

Rabbideau will replace John VanWagoner, who left this summer for the top job in Traverse City schools, and Susan Wooden, the former Beaverton superintendent who took the job on an interim basis while the school board searched for a new chief.

We wish Rabbideau well, and welcome him to the community. He’s got a big job ahead of him, but he’s also got a fantastic community around him and we know they’ll rally when he needs their support.

Thank you, VanWagoner and Wooden, for your service to the community.

(THE ALPENA NEWS)