Okemos superintendent announces 2026 retirement

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Published: Nov. 12, 2025 at 8:15 AM EST

OKEMOS, Mich. (WILX) - Okemos Public Schools Superintendent John Hood has announced that he will retire on March 26, 2026.

In an email to the Okemos community, Hood reflected on his time with the district, writing, “I am incredibly proud of all that we have accomplished together, and thank you for your genuine support and collaboration over the years. Serving this extraordinary community has been a profoundly rewarding experience, one that I will always cherish. It has truly been an honor to serve you.”

Tom Buffett, president of the Okemos Board of Education, said the board has formed an ad hoc committee to oversee the transition process.

As part of the process, the board will seek input from staff, families, and community members.

“Our goals are to find the best possible superintendent to lead Okemos Public Schools and to ensure a smooth and thoughtful transition that maintains the strength and stability of our district,” Buffett said.

The committee will begin work immediately and is expected to provide an update at the November 24 Board of Education meeting.

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