Berkley Schools Superintendent Resigns Effective July 1

Berkley Schools Superintendent Michael Simeck announced Tuesday that he will be leaving the district for a similar position in Lake Forest, IL, effective July 1.

In an email message sent to parents, Simeck said he felt the five years he was with Berkley Schools have "been incredible and taught me much about the benefits of involving others, active listening, and sincere response."

Simeck said the new position in Lake Forest – for  and  – is a very good match professionally and a "significant opportunity for us as a family." 

Simeck has been superintendent of the Berkley School District since 2007, and previously served as superintendent in Dansville, MI, from 2003-07.

"I am very pleased and eager to become superintendent of District 67 and Lake Forest High School," Simeck said in a report on . "It is evident the communities support and value exemplary education. I look forward to working with all stakeholders to make Lake Forest Schools’ future even brighter.”

Mitchell Moses, who has served on the Board of Education since July, said Simeck will be missed.

"During my limited time on the Berkley School Board I've had the opportunity to observe Mike's excellent leadership skills and vision that have helped keep the Berkley School district one of the strongest in the area. Mike will certainly be missed," he said. "It's now the job of the Board of Education to find the best leader/visionary to continue the work to help keep Berkley Schools a top program. We hope to finalize those plans very soon."ll 

Calls and emails to Simeck for further comment have not been returned.

As for why Lake Forest chose Simeck: “Michael’s commitment to being a reflective leader will serve our communities well and the continuation of shared services will ensure the educational and financial benefits to our constituents,” Julia Wold, District 67 Board of Education president, said in a press release.

Come back to Berkley Patch for updates.