Michael Kapolka looking forward to new role as Superintendent of Chelsea Schools

By: Aimee Bingham Osinski anbingham@gmail.com
Chelsea Guardian recently had the pleasure of speaking with Michael Kapolka about his new role as Superintendent of Chelsea Schools. Read on to learn more about him and how he feels about his new venture!
Chelsea Guardian: You  were formerly the principal of Chelsea High School, what made you decide to come back as Superintendent? 
Mike Kapolka: I was blessed with the opportunity in 2007 to be hired as an assistant principal at Chelsea High School.  Our family moved to the area shortly thereafter and we have been active members of the Chelsea community ever since. When the Superintendent position in Chelsea became available, I jumped at the opportunity to potentially return to the district that has provided so much to me.  
CG: Is there anything you hope to accomplish with the district as Superintendent?  
MK: We have been very fortunate to have outstanding community support for the Chelsea School District.  Over the course of the past two years, pandemic learning has been challenging to navigate for many of our students, families and staff.  As we head into this school year, our focus for the district will be on resetting and refocusing our efforts centered on the academic, social and emotional growth of our students.
CG: Any work that Dr. Helber was doing that you'd like to continue to do?
MK: Dr. Helber was the driving force behind CSD's expansion of Career and Technical Education opportunities for our high school students. As we review current programming and look towards innovative options for our students, CTE will remain at the forefront of those efforts.
CG: What changes should parents and students expect to see this year in the district?
MK: Thanks to our community's support, the 2019 bond work is well underway.  Parents, students and staff will see newly paved parking lots at North Creek and South Meadows.  North also received new carpeting throughout the building and South received new interior classroom doors.  At Chelsea High School, each classroom has received flexible classroom furniture that replaces the original furniture from 1998.  
CG: As a parent of two school aged children during our recent disruption from learning, the last thing anyone wants to see is any future disruptions.   Do you have a plan in place to address the spread of illness within the school?  
MK: We are very fortunate to have two full time nurses in our district that are in constant contact with the Washtenaw County Health Department.  We will continue to share best practices and recommendations from the WCHD with families so that they can be equipped with up-to-date information so that they can make the best possible decision for their family.