Superintendent Search
2026 Avondale Superintendent Search
Avondale School District is pleased to share that the Avondale Board of Education has voted to extend an offer for the superintendent position to Catherine “Cathy” Kochanski, contingent upon the successful negotiation and approval of a contract. Kochanski currently serves as Assistant Superintendent of Learning Services for Walled Lake Consolidated Schools. Her previous experience includes serving as an elementary principal in Rochester and Brandon, as well as a teacher in Troy.
“We are pleased to welcome Cathy Kochanski to Avondale Schools,” said Rita Davis, President of the Avondale Board of Education. “Throughout the interview process, she demonstrated a strong commitment to student achievement, staff collaboration, and meaningful community engagement. We are confident her leadership experience and dedication to public education will support the continued success of our district.”
The Board of Education extends its sincere appreciation to the many staff members, families, students, and community members who participated in the superintendent search process. More than 400 individuals shared feedback through surveys and focus groups, providing valuable insight that helped guide the Board throughout this important decision.
The Board would also like to thank all of the candidates who applied and participated in the process for their time, commitment, and genuine interest in leading Avondale Schools. We appreciate the experiences, perspectives, and dedication to public education that each candidate shared throughout the search process.
Please join the Board of Education in welcoming Cathy Kochanski to the Avondale Schools community. Pending contract negotiations and approval, the Board anticipates Mrs. Kochanski will officially begin on July 1, 2026.
Selected Candidate Resume
Candidate Profile
A key priority in this process has been developing a clear profile of the ideal candidate. To ensure the next superintendent reflects the needs and values of our district, the Board has actively sought input from staff, families, and community members through a community survey and input sessions.
Timeline
A full timeline of the superintendent search process can be found below for your reference. Key milestones include the application deadline in April, first and second round interviews in May, and final selection and contract approval later that month. The Board anticipates the new superintendent will officially begin on July 1, 2026.