On February 20, the BCPS Board of Education voted unanimously to offer the superintendent position to Mr. Grant Hegenauer. The district will share more information as the board works to finalize a contract.
Mr. Grant Hegenauer
Growing up in the Tri-Cities, I developed a deep appreciation for the value of community, education, and collaboration—values that have guided me throughout my career. In 1995, I had the privilege of serving as the first Varsity Soccer Coach for the Bay City Public Schools, an experience that ignited my passion for mentoring young people and fostering their growth.
With over 30 years of proven experience as an educational leader, I have dedicated my career to creating impactful learning environments that prioritize student success. My journey spans diverse roles, including classroom teacher, adjunct instructor, administrator, and Drill Sergeant in the U.S. Army Reserve. Each chapter of my career has shaped my commitment to fostering positive, inclusive environments where students and staff thrive.
As a teacher for 15 years at Swartz Creek Community Schools, I was twice honored as Teacher of the Year for my innovative instructional strategies and student-centered approach. I later served as an adjunct instructor for Marygrove College's Master’s in the Art of Teaching Program, empowering educators with the skills needed to drive meaningful change in their classrooms. My military service as a Drill Sergeant honed my leadership skills, discipline, and ability to mentor individuals toward achieving their fullest potential—skills that continue to inform my approach to education and leadership.
A Career of Accomplishment
Throughout my career, I have taken on increasingly impactful leadership roles. As Superintendent of Frankenmuth School District, I have led initiatives such as implementing the district's first Strategic Plan in nearly two decades and adopting the High Reliability Schools™ framework, earning national recognition for academic excellence. My ability to secure over $1.5 million in grant funding has provided resources to expand programs, enhance professional development, and support student achievement.
In prior roles as principal and CTE director at Montrose and Byron Area Schools, I expanded Career and Technical Education (CTE) programs, improved graduation rates, and increased access to dual enrollment opportunities. My efforts have consistently resulted in measurable improvements, including higher test scores, stronger community engagement, and the creation of innovative academic programs such as Mechatronics, Drone Aviation Certification and Early College partnerships.
Recognized Excellence
My dedication has been recognized through numerous accolades, including Michigan FCCLA Outstanding Administrator of the Year (2017) and Battalion Soldier of the Year (1997 and 1998) during my military service. These honors reflect my unwavering commitment to excellence, whether leading soldiers, mentoring educators, or supporting students.
What I Will Bring to Bay City Public School District
I bring a unique combination of instructional expertise, administrative leadership, and military discipline to Bay City Public Schools. My leadership philosophy centers on collaboration, data-driven decision-making, and shared responsibility to achieve district-wide goals. I aim to build on the district’s strengths by:
• Empowering educators through professional development and mentorship programs.
• Enhancing student opportunities with innovative academic and extracurricular initiatives.
• Strengthening community partnerships to support and align with district objectives.
• Driving continuous improvement through data analysis, strategic planning, and inclusive leadership.
My proven track record of fostering student success, uniting stakeholders, and navigating complex challenges positions me as a leader ready to guide Bay City Public Schools toward a bright and successful future. Together, we will build a district where every student is empowered to excel, and every stakeholder is engaged in achieving shared success.