By Jennifer Champagne
Managing Editor
Superintendent Mike Travis has announced his intention to retire from Munising Public Schools at the end of the 2025-26 school year, concluding a 30-year career in public education.
Travis said he intends to formally submit his retirement letter to the Board of Education at its December meeting, with his final day currently planned for June 30.
“The idea of retirement is exciting, but it also results in a little anxiety,” Travis said. “I will have 30 years in as of spring break. I’m excited for the next chapter, but I’m not going anywhere. Munising is home now, and I will continue to find ways to serve others.”
Travis first came to Munising in July 2021, when he was hired as principal and athletic director of Munising Middle/High School. In his introductory letter to families dated July 14, 2021, he wrote that becoming a Mustang would be “the culmination of my career.”
On Feb. 15, 2022, the Munising Board of Education voted to approve Travis as the next superintendent, effective July 1, 2022, following the retirement of then-Superintendent Pete Kelto. Travis assumed the role that summer after promising board members Lara Bender and John Carr during the interview process that he would retire from Munising.
Travis said he gave early notice so the board has time to conduct a thorough search, which is critical because of the rural educator shortage.
“I signaled the board early so they would have as much time as possible to get the right person and the right fit,” he said. “Some districts post these positions and receive no applicants or very inexperienced applicants. I want Munising ahead of the curve.”
Travis confirmed that he intends to remain in the community after his retirement. He and his wife, Jennifer, recently moved into their new “retirement” home within the city.
“We’re already in our new house,” he said. “This is where we want to be. My wife and I love the Upper Peninsula, and Munising feels like home.”
Travis holds a bachelor’s degree in business education from Ferris State University and a master’s in career and technical education. He began his career as a teacher at Cheboygan Area High School and later served in administrative roles at Mount Pleasant, Lakeview and Elk Rapids, accumulating 21 years as a principal before coming to Munising in 2021.
As superintendent, he has led post-pandemic recovery efforts, improvements in student achievement, attendance and support services, and overseen facility upgrades. Current projects include repairs to Nebel Track and replacing defective roofing systems at Munising Middle/High School. Travis said he plans to remain engaged in district operations through the end of his contract and assist with a smooth leadership transition.
“I’ve given this work everything I have,” he said. “Now it’s time to let the district begin its next chapter with new blood and new ideas, and I’ll be right here to support it.”
MPS leadership expressed appreciation for Travis’ service and confidence in the district’s future direction.
“The Munising Public School District is grateful to have worked with Mr. Travis,” Board President Lara Bender said. “I appreciate him giving the board time to consider next steps, and we are hopeful for what the future holds for our schools.”
“Mr. Travis brought with him a wealth of experience from a variety of districts that has helped Munising Public Schools progress in many ways,” Munising Middle/High School Principal Nicole Lasak said. “I am grateful to have had the opportunity to work with him as a colleague, mentor and friend. I wish him the very best in his retirement, and I am confident we will find a worthy replacement.”