The Olivet School Board narrowed the field to two candidates after interviewing six candidates for the superintendent position. The two finalists are Derek Lounds, High School Principal in Eaton Rapids and Robert Vaught, Superintendent of Detour Schools.
The initial candidate interviews were held on March 14. Board members asked the candidates questions regarding vision for the school district, communication style, management and decision-making style, budget, and many others. Candidates offered opening and closing statements. There were several staff and community members present and they offered feedback on the candidates.
The second round of interviews will be held on Tuesday, March 14 in the Middle School Library. There will be an open house at 4:30 p.m. in the OMS Library for staff and community members to meet the candidates. Interviews will begin at 6:30 p.m. that evening in the Media Center. The public is encouraged to attend.
Candidates and the times they will be interviewed are as follows:
Tuesday, March 17th
6:30 p.m. Derek Lounds, M.A., High School Principal in Eaton Rapids since 2014. Previously, he was assistant principal at Eaton Rapids for one year and also taught math and English at Eaton Rapids for five years.
7:45 p.m. Robert Vaught, M.A., superintendent in Detour since 2018. Previously, he was executive officer and commanding officer of Michigan Youth Challenge Academy in Battle Creek. He also has been a principal, teacher and coach in various schools.
The Board expects to appoint a new superintendent to begin July 1, 2026.