Farmington School Board Names New Superintendent

Avondale superintendent George Heitsch was selected on a split vote Thursday to take a similar position with Farmington Public Schools.

The school board voted 4-3 to hire Heitsch. Michele Harmala, Farmington’s associate superintendent of instructional services and organizational leadership, was the other finalist.

He will replace current Superintendent Susan H. Zurvalec, who is retiring July 1 after nine years at the helm of the district.

Heitsch has served as Avondale’s superintendent since 2006, also previously worked for the Farmington school district, as well as in the West Bloomfield and Huron Valley school districts.

He earned his Educational Doctorate in Curriculum and Instruction from Wayne State University.

The search to replace Zurvalec  began in March and was narrowed to the two finalists, who participated in day-long visits and final interviews last week.