Superintendent
Welcome to the 2024-2025 school year! I’m proud to be entering my ninth year as Superintendent of Portland Public Schools. Reflecting on our progress over the years, I am continually impressed by what we’ve achieved together and energized by the promise of what lies ahead. The dedication to excellence I witness across our district and community is inspiring, making Portland not only a fantastic place to work but also a wonderful place to live and learn.
I am proud to say that I grew up in Eagle and call the Portland/Eagle area my lifelong home, where my wife Jamie and I have raised our three daughters - Bella, Anna, and Sammy-J. Bella is finishing her 5th year in our early college program, Anna is a senior, and our youngest, Sammy-J, is in seventh grade. There is plenty of Raider PRIDE in our family! Portland is and always will be home to our family.
I earned my Bachelor's of Science Degree from Michigan State University in Biological Science Interdepartmental. After MSU I spent five years teaching science at Owosso High School. I obtained my Master's degree from Grand Valley State University in Secondary Education Administration. This degree allowed me to move into administration and I spent six years at Morrice Area Schools serving as the Jr/Sr High Principal and Superintendent. I was very fortunate and privileged during my career to serve a total of 16 years in the U.S. Navy (5 years on active duty and 11 years as a reservist) as both a P-3 Orion Flight Engineer and leadership instructor. My time in the service was a critical part of my education. I learned multiple leadership strategies and developed a better understanding of our diverse country and world.
It is my job to ensure that Portland Public Schools provides the best education for all students in Portland. The decisions that we make as a district are always made with a focus on what is in the best interest of our students, families, and community. My focus is to maintain the local control of our community school in order to meet the needs of our students, families, and community. We are excited that in the years ahead you will see a steady increase in opportunities for all students. While Portland may grow and opportunities may increase, we will still embrace the small town feel that makes Portland a special place to live, work, and go to school.
Please give me a call, send me an email, or flag me down when you see me if you have a concern, comment, suggestion, or just want to talk education.
William Heath
William Heath
Superintendent