By Steve Vedder – School News Network

Forest Hills Public Schools, MI —  Retired Forest Hills Superintendent Dr. J. Michael Washburn, long-time mentor and education advisor, received the Educational Advocacy Award from the Kent Intermediate Association of School Boards at its fall meeting.

Washburn served as superintendent of the Forest Hills Public Schools for 21 years and was instrumental in transforming the district into one of the highest performing suburban school districts in Michigan, Kent Intermediate Association of School Boards President and Northview Board Member Tim Detweler said.

“Mike Washburn is a gifted professional who has contributed greatly to the school districts in our region”, Detwiler said. “Our board benefited greatly from his expertise in selecting our last two superintendents, and I’m certain the others in our ISD did as well.”

Since leaving Forest Hills, Washburn served as a consultant to Kent ISD and its member districts, mentored superintendents, was a counselor and strategic advisor to school boards and served as search consultant who guided the placement of new leaders in eight districts, including Kent ISD in 2015.

The Kent Intermediate Association of School Boards is an organization of board members directing the 20 public schools within Kent ISD. The Education Advocacy Award was created in 2004 to recognize those who created better conditions for children, improved student achievement and initiated collaborative programs to encourage student success. Previous winners include a wide range of business and community leaders.

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