Schools superintendent leaves an impressive legacy

This week marks the end of an era for Hamtramck’s Public Schools.
Superintendent Tom Niczay is ending his storied career in education this week, and the torch is being passed on to a new superintendent.
It’s hard to say goodbye to such a dedicated public servant.
Mr. Niczay is not one to seek praise – or even welcome it — but if ever there was a person who deserved it, it is him. He has been in education for 41 years – the last 11 of which, serving as superintendent.
We recently recapped his many accomplishments, but they’re are worth repeating. Mr. Niczay came into his position after several prior superintendents just couldn’t mesh with various school board members.
There was political chaos.
Mr. Niczay brought instant political stability – which is a credit to his inclusive temperament.
He also piloted the district through rocky financial times. At one point, the district was facing a $5 million budget deficit, but with Niczay’s guidance, the district climbed out of debt. It now enjoys an $11 million budget surplus.
Of course, Mr. Niczay will be the first to point out that this achievement came about thanks to his administrators and school employees.
The employees also had to endure some steep financial cuts.
At that this point, the district has never looked so secure.
Mr. Niczay’s retirement is going to leave a huge void. He touched the lives of many students and parents.
We wish him a long and healthy retirement. It’s going to take a while getting used to him not being here.
June 28, 2019