Laughter, sadness, excitement and a few tears were part of the emotional mix at the Jan. 10 Milford Public Schools Board of Education meeting as Superintendent Kevin Wingard made official his intent to retire at the end of the school year after nearly two decades in Milford.
“It’s crazy to think it’s been 19 years, and it’s all been just amazing,” Wingard said.
The board reluctantly approved his letter of resignation, reflecting on the last 19 years and how the district has changed under Wingard’s leadership.
Board President Dave Welsch has been on the board since before Wingard’s hiring.
“Our culture 20 years ago was quite different than it is today. It’s much improved,” Welsch said, noting that everything from the way teachers communicate to how parents cheer at sports events has transformed.
“Both buildings had different themes, different curriculums, even in different classrooms. If you had twins, your kids received a different education,” Wingard said.
He spoke highly of the parents, board members and community support that allowed for that change – though it was rough in the beginning.
“When we changed philosophies with teachers that had been here 30 years...We had a lot of closed-door meetings with teachers and with parents that weren’t fun,” Wingard said. “For you guys to trust us and let us get a culture and a vision going … There aren’t many superintendents who get that support.”
Dr. Mitch Kubicek, who has served as Milford’s Director of Learning the past seven years, will become the district’s next superintendent.
“We call Kevin ‘simple, boring and good,’” Kubicek said with a smile. “He is the guy that says, ‘But what are we really focused on? We’re going this direction.’ Kevin’s done a great job with that. There are some times when that’s easy to do and some times when it’s not easy to do.”
Wingard said his ‘simplicity’ mindset takes root in just doing the right thing and ensuring there are no surprises when it comes to board or administrative decisions.
“We know what works. We know the direction to go, let’s just do it. Quit chasing crazy things and do what’s right for kids,” he said.
Wingard was in his first year as an administrator in Ainsworth when he interviewed for the position at Milford.
He said the interview was intense.
“(We thought) Kevin’s a young guy, but he’s an up and comer. It couldn’t have turned out any better,” Welsch said.
Board member Ned Pauley wished Wingard well on behalf of the board.
“You’ve set up this board for success by having a successor ready, by having an administrative team that’s capable,” Pauley said. “We’re just happy for you.”
Wingard commended the teachers, students and parents for their contributions to the district every day.
“Our kids represent us well, and our staff. It’s pretty fun to be part of,” he said.
He’ll miss the “good mornings” he receives from students each day through hugs, high-fives and smiling faces.
Wingard credited much of the district’s success to the other administrators who lead MPS – the principals of each building and Kubicek as director of learning.
“People are jealous of my administrative team, and they should be. I’ve been blessed,” he said.
Wingard’s resignation will be effective June 28.
He expressed his deep appreciation to the board for their 19 years of support.
“You took a chance on a rookie,” he said, “and I thank you.”
