By Crystal Hayduk
Chelsea High School (CHS) Principal Nick Angel attended his final school board meeting on June 24, to say good-bye to the district where he has served as an administrator for 16 years.
Angel was hired on June 14 as the next superintendent of Grass Lake Community Schools. He will officially begin his new job on July 1.
Superintendent Mike Kapolka read a prepared statement to honor his colleague’s years of service to the district.
Kapolka said he is proud of Angel, and not surprised that Grass Lake’s school board selected him to be their new superintendent. He thanked Angel for his exemplary service to Chelsea School District (CSD). “Dr. Angel’s unbridled enthusiasm for all things Chelsea has been infectious, making him one of the most passionate advocates for our schools and our community,” he said.
Kapolka said Angel’s interactions with students, parents, staff, and the community have fostered an environment that was “…positive, supportive, inclusive, and fun.” The cornerstone of his leadership style has been his authentic relationships with people—especially students—as he took the time to get to know their unique needs and aspirations. Through his direct interaction with students, Angel encouraged them to be the best versions of themselves.
Angel demonstrated his support and pride in his students through his presence at hundreds of school events, games, and performances. He mentored hundreds of students, giving them “… the tools and confidence to successfully navigate both [academic and] personal challenges,” said Kapolka. Students knew their principal would be their most vocal supporter and coach them with thoughtful advice, because he had their best interests at heart. His guidance was a “beacon of light” during times of celebration, as well as times of need.
“Nick lived the expectations of his job because he believed that it benefitted others,” Kapolka said, his voice breaking. “He’s lived this job, he’s walked the walk, and he’s the living and breathing definition of a servant leader. …
“His legacy of forward facing, hair on fire, unbridled enthusiastic leadership is something we should all aspire to be and to do and to live,” said Kapolka. “… His leadership and passion will continue to inspire and benefit the broader educational community of Grass Lake.”
Following a standing ovation in his honor, Angel stepped to the podium. He thanked the school board, district, and administrators for their support during his 16-year tenure. He said his lens in the district is unique because his children are graduates, and his youngest will be a junior this fall. He thanked the educators who helped them along the way, specifically naming Eric Robinson, Amy Doma, Dawn Putnam, and Adam Taylor.
Angel said it is the collective efforts of the entire district that have made a difference in the lives of the students. “It has been an honor and a privilege to work alongside such a dedicated team,” he said.
Angel thanked Kapolka for being the right superintendent to bridge the old and the new. Naming the current administrative team, he said they are moving the district forward in ways he could not have previously imagined.
He thanked Luman Strong, Brad Bush, and Wayne Welton for always putting students first; his administrative assistant team for their guidance, leadership, and important work; Julie Helber and Andy Ingall for their previous leadership; and Julie Deppner and Dave Killips “for taking a chance” on hiring a 28-year-old assistant principal in 2008. “That decision forever changed the course of my life, much for the better,” he said.
Angel is thankful for the trust the community placed in him and the opportunities to make an impact. As he looks ahead to new challenges, he will not forget the blessing the Chelsea community has been to him and his family.
Although Angel exited the meeting following his statement, several board members spoke about him before the meeting adjourned. Erin Hunt-Carter said he was a “shining presence” in the district who cares about the students. Michelle Craig said it was a pleasure to see the way he interacts with students at work.
Glenn Fox said Angel is a “fantastic listener” with a good sense of humor, and there is satisfaction knowing that a CSD administrator “won” the superintendency in Grass Lake.
Scott Moore and Eric Wilkinson also spoke positively about Angel. Board President Kate Henson was absent.
For more information, see Kapolka’s press release and Angel’s letter to the community.
A videorecording of the school board meeting is available for viewing here. The special presentation and Angel’s comment to the board run from timestamp 17:35 to 27:00.
