CALUMET, Mich. (WZMQ) – The Calumet Laurium Keweenaw (CLK) Public Schools district has a new superintendent.
Joel Asiala, a long-time educator in the Keweenaw, was appointed by the school district. He has previously served as principal at Horizon Alternative High School for five years followed by three years as principal of Washington Middle School. Prior to his time with CLK Public Schools, he was a special education teacher at the Lake Linden-Hubbell School District for 13 years.
The district says as superintendent, Asiala will be responsible for driving academic achievement, overseeing educational standards, and developing a forward-thinking vision for the district. His responsibilities will also include managing the district’s budget and financial plans, handling school system logistics, monitoring progress, and identifying key areas for improvement.
A graduate of Jeffers High School, Asiala went on to earn a Bachelor of Science in Social Studies and Physical Education from Northern Michigan University, and a Master of Science in Special Education with an endorsement in Education Administration from the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MAASP).
Asiala co-founded the Superior Educator Award in collaboration with the Copper Shores Community Health Foundation and is currently a trustee on the Keweenaw Health Foundation Board of Directors. In 2019, he received the Alternative Principal Award of the Year by the State of Michigan.
In addition, Asiala has coached both boys’ and girls’ basketball teams and is the co-founder of the Teach Link Education Software Company.
“I am honored to serve as the Superintendent of CLK Public Schools,” said Asiala.” This community holds a special place in my heart, and I am committed to using my skills and experiences to make our schools the school of choice. Together, we will continue to strive for excellence and provide the best possible education for our students.”