FHPS Board of Education Enters Contract Negotiations with Benjamin Kirby as Next Superintendent of Schools
The Forest Hills Public Schools Board of Education unanimously voted tonight to enter into contract negotiations with Benjamin Kirby as the next superintendent for Forest Hills Public Schools. Before tonight’s board meeting, the board hosted a meet-and-greet event for the community, staff, and students. The special board meeting began at 5 p.m., and each finalist presented a 90-day plan, including how they would acclimate into the district and review initial focus areas.
“We are thrilled to make an offer to Mr. Kirby for the superintendent position for Forest Hills,” said Dr. Kristen Fauson, FHPS Board President. “It was a very tough decision because we had two exceptional candidates, with stellar educational backgrounds and leadership experience. As a united board, we felt that Mr. Kirby was a fit with our educational mission, and he clearly is able to articulate a vision for the future, create a culture of collaboration, and advance the educational expectations in the classroom and beyond.”
Kirby has served the Lake Orion Community Schools as superintendent since 2020. Prior to Lake Orion, he was the assistant superintendent in South Lyon for two years, associate superintendent in Ionia for 11 years, high school principal in Ionia for three years, middle school principal in Ionia for one year, and middle school assistant principal in Ionia for five years. Kirby taught middle school for five years in Ionia and Central Montcalm.
“Leadership is when competence and character come together, and people see that in me,” Kirby said in one of his interviews. “I value relationships, teamwork, and listening to people. Collaborating with students, staff, parents, and businesses is important. Forest Hills is a great place with partnerships, with students and staff, and we can continue to be greater yet. This position is a perfect combination for me and for my professional career to continue in an outstanding school district. I am excited to lead FHPS and look forward to our future together.”
“Under the leadership of our superintendent, we cultivate a culture where innovation thrives, empowering both students and educators to explore, experiment, and embrace new ideas,” Fauson continued. “Together with Mr. Kirby we are embarking on a mission to cultivate a community of lifelong learners, where curiosity is cherished, and every individual is empowered to reach their full potential.”
Following tonight’s board of education meeting, a subcommittee of the board will meet with Mr. Kirby to finalize a contract. The intent is to have Mr. Kirby officially begin July 1, 2024. The FHPS board launched a search for a new school superintendent following the announcement of retirement made in late March of 2023 by FHPS Superintendent Dan Behm, who served as superintendent for 17 years. The board unanimously selected Michigan Leadership Institute to lead the search for a permanent superintendent. Dr. Sara Magaña Shubel is currently serving as interim superintendent through June 30, 2024.
To look back on the hiring process, click here.
