SAU 13 Superintendent Dr. Michael Whaland Named 2026 NHSAA Superintendent of the Year

Dr. Michael Whaland, Superintendent of SAU 13, has been named the state’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year by the New Hampshire School Administrators Association.

Dr. Whaland was honored on Monday, Dec. 8, at the Grappone Conference Center in Concord during an NHSAA statewide conference. Liv Crete-Sayer of Boscawen Elementary School, New Hampshire’s Kid Governor-elect for 2025, announced the award.

“I’m deeply grateful for my communities’ incredible teams, and the School Boards in SAU 13,” Dr. Whaland said. “While I’m the one being recognized today, this is truly an SAU 13 honor.”

He thanked his nominators, the state Department of Education and the NHSAA selection committee. He added: “Leadership requires finding your own voice. I credit NHSAA and the colleagues and mentors I’ve had over the years to help me find my voice, so I can support my own school systems.”

He also thanked White Mountains Superintendent Dr. Marion Anastasia, the 2025 Superintendent of the Year, for her guidance and support, having worked as a guidance counselor and Assistant Principal in the district.

Dr. Whaland served as Curriculum Director in the Raymond School District before becoming SAU 13 Superintendent in July 2021.

Dr. Whaland has created numerous initiatives as SAU 13 superintendent: A universal feeding initiative in Tamworth to combat food insecurity and its proven effects on student learning; showcasing successful graduates to connect education and community pride; opening school facilities to entire community during non-school hours; and establishing quarterly meetings with officials in district communities to coordinate budget planning.

In her nomination, Tamworth School Board Chair Kathi Padgett cited other initiatives such as creating an SAU-wide preschool program to meet the needs of special education students on site, initiating a foundational reading program, and ensuring teachers receive relevant professional development.

She wrote: “He continues to be receptive to new ideas and to implementing the programs the Board has emphasized as being important to the betterment of the school. He is still fairly new to the job (four years in) and already is demonstrating a maturity and openness to change in response to changing conditions at the school that are needed in today’s education environment.”

Freedom School Board Chair Sarah Groleau cited Dr. Whaland’s navigation of the district through COVID-19 as a first-year superintendent, his efforts to rebuild trust with district towns, and his advocacy for teaching staff.

“He finds a way to keep kids first, support his teachers and maintain open communication with all stakeholders. In what seems like a pivotal moment for public education, we are glad to have Mike’s practical (and humble) leadership,” Groleau wrote.

Dr. Whaland holds four degrees from Plymouth State University: a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, a Master of Education in School Counseling, a Certificate of Advanced Graduate Studies in Educational Leadership, and a Doctor of Education.

He also is a Teaching Lecturer at Plymouth State College and New England College.

Dr. Mark MacLean, NHSAA Executive Director, said, “Congratulations to Dr. Michael Whaland for his well-deserved recognition as New Hampshire’s 2026 Superintendent of the Year! Dr. Whaland was chosen for this award from among a group of highly skilled and dynamic education leaders. Whether he’s focusing on early literacy in reading and math or ensuring all students have access to nutritional meals, Dr. Whaland’s ‘students-first’ approach is truly making a positive difference. Dr. Whaland is known for his level head, open mind, and authentic collaboration. Public education is integral to a free and democratic society, contributing to the evolution, sustainability, health, and well-being of communities throughout New Hampshire. Dr. Whaland embodies the strategic, dedicated, and selfless work necessary to proactively and effectively lead and bring together a community of learners. We look forward to celebrating this award in the year ahead with Dr. Whaland, his team, and the SAU 13 community.”

Dr. Whaland will be recognized during the AASA national conference in Nashville in February 2026. As Superintendent of the Year, he also will deliver the keynote address at the annual NHSAA conference in June 2026.