Woodhaven-Brownstown board approves director of special services and several new hires

The Woodhaven-Brownstown School District board on May 12 approved several personnel recommendations, including the hiring of Jenny Lauderbach as director of special services and mass approval of professional staff, support staff and Schedule B coaches for the 2026-27 school year.

Board member Laura Barry moved to approve Lauderbach'9s administrative appointment, effective May 13 with a July 1 start date; the motion passed by voice vote after colleagues praised Lauderbach's 23 years in the district and experience in special services. The board then approved multiple professional hires effective for the 2026-27 school year, among them Natalie Christine Nagel (health), Bryce Jackson (kindergarten), Alyssa Castro/Castrea (young fives), Selena Lorta (first grade), Jacob Sheets (physical education) and McKenna Shell (business and marketing). Superintendent and staff noted a strong applicant pool — more than 90 elementary applicants — and several new hires who are district alumni.

The board also approved the employment of Lauren Kratz as executive assistant to the superintendent and board, effective July 1, and approved Schedule B coaching assignments including Taran Johnson Lemieux (varsity girls swimming/diving head coach), Jenna Keekich (varsity volleyball assistant) and Chad Smith (varsity football assistant). Many of the new staff were introduced to the audience by Mr. Roberts, who summarized qualifications and backgrounds.

All personnel motions were approved by voice vote; the board congratulated the new hires and retirees recognized earlier in the meeting.