April 13, 2015
Dear Shaker Families, Staff Members, Friends, and Community Members:
Since I arrived in Shaker nearly two years ago, perhaps nothing has consistently impressed me more than the caliber of our faculty and staff. These individuals make a difference every day in the lives of our young people, and they are the reason our school district continues to shine brightly.
It is always bittersweet when a member of our Shaker family decides to make a career transition outside the District. I have such an announcement to share with you today: Mike Griffith, principal of Shaker Heights High School, has accepted the position of head of school for the Ratner School, effective in July.
Mike came to Shaker 15 years ago, and has earned the respect and admiration of thousands of Shaker students, parents and colleagues, myself included.
That said, Mike has been offered a wonderful opportunity, and I know you will join me in wishing him every success as he begins this new chapter in his career. In his new role, he will continue to influence and shape the lives of young people in Greater Cleveland for years to come. There are many Shaker students and graduates who can testify to the role Mike has played in their lives, and that will be his true legacy here in Shaker.
Mike's last day with the District will be June 30, so there will be many opportunities to say goodbye and thank him for his contributions. I know he will appreciate your words and good wishes. In the meantime, we have already begun the work to find Mike's successor. Those plans include forming a search committee to lead a national search. I intend to make sure the community will have involvement in the search for a new principal for Shaker Heights High School. You have my pledge to keep you informed as the committee's work progresses. A complete timeline of the national search will be forthcoming.
As Alexander Graham Bell once said, "When one door closes, another opens." Together, let's view this transition as an opportunity to build on the foundation Mike has created at the High School. We will always consider him part of our Shaker family.
Sincerely,
Dr. Gregory C. Hutchings, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools
View Mr. Griffith's letter to High School families.