Courtesy Photo Bonnie Wenick-Kutz, left, poses for a photo with Delta-Schoolcraft Intermediate School District (DSISD) Superintendent Doug Leisenring after Wenick-Kutz was honored at the DSISD school board meeting last week. Wenick-Kutz retired from her position on the board after 27 years of service.

ESCANABA — A Delta-Schoolcraft Intermediate School District (DSISD) school board member recently retired after serving 27 years on the board. Bonnie Wenick-Kutz, of Perronville, was recognized for the achievement at a special ceremony during the DSISD’s regular meeting last Thursday.

“When I do something, I do it long-term,” said Wenick-Kutz.

During her time on the board, Wenick-Kutz said one of the biggest accomplishments she had the pleasure of being a part of was hiring “three fantastic superintendents” for the district, including Dennis Stanek, Mike Koster, and current superintendent, Doug Leisenring.

“I’m very proud of the people I’ve been involved in hiring,” said Wenick-Kutz, adding this applies to all of the teaching staff at the Intermediate School District.

Wenick-Kutz explained the DSISD has many unique offerings for local students, including classes in career technology, skilled trades, and health occupations. The district also has the only school in Delta County that focuses on disabled and mentally challenged children in the area.

“We’re very fortunate,” said Wenick-Kutz.

In addition to serving on the DSISD board, Wenick-Kutz also served on the Bark River-Harris Board of Education for 28 years. Throughout her time at the district, Wenick-Kutz said she had a hand in hiring over six superintendents and countless other educators. Today, Wenick-Kutz has grandchildren who attend and have graduated from Bark River-Harris School.

In 1991, Wenick-Kutz decided to run for an open seat on the DSISD board and continued her service to education. While there, she served as vice-president, trustee, and treasurer.

A recognition ceremony was held for the distinguished board member on Thursday, Jan. 11, during the DSISD’s regular board meeting.

Wenick-Kutz’s family and friends attended the meeting as a surprise. Wenick-Kutz also received a distinguished leadership award from the Michigan Association of School Boards (MASB).

“I don’t like surprises,” laughed Wenick-Kutz. “I was very pleased however, even though I like it just nice and quiet.”

Regardless of not liking being in the spotlight, Wenick-Kutz said she hopes by speaking out and being active within the community, it will inspire others to be more involved.

Wenick-Kutz noted making the choice to leave the DSISD Board of Education was no easy task.

“I just felt like it was time,” said Wenick-Kutz.

On top of her academic achievements, Wenick-Kutz was also a partner at Garceau Wenick-Kutz Magowan Insurance Agency in Escanaba. Wenick-Kutz retired from her position at the insurance agency three years ago.

Wenick-Kutz explained she was also an active volunteer in the local community, noting she was the lead organizer for the annual Escanaba Christmas parade for many years. She and her family also helped manage the Gus Macker basketball tournaments when they were held in downtown Escanaba.

Although leaving the area for a short time to live in Alaska, Wenick-Kutz has lived in Perronville for over 40 years, where she and her husband, Karl, still reside.