MANISTIQUE — The Manistique Board of Education has selected Dr. Kristina M. Hansen as the new superintendent for the school district. After a search process involving members of its schools and community, the board unanimously approved Hansen’s contract on November 20 during its regular board meeting. She will officially begin on January 1, 2024 and replaces Howard Parmentier, who will retire on December 31, 2023.

Originally from Escanaba, Hansen earned an associate of arts degree from Bay College. She then went on to study at Northern Michigan University (NMU) earning a bachelor of science degree in elementary education followed by a master of arts in education specializing in learning disabilities. Hansen returned to NMU to earn an additional master of arts in education in administration and supervision along with an education specialist degree also in administration and supervision. Most recently, she earned a doctor of education in educational leadership from Central Michigan University in 2020.

Hansen began her career in education with the Hannahville Indian Community and at the Nah Tah Wahsh Public School Academy in Wilson where she served in a variety of roles including a grant coordinator, behavior management trainer, writing project coordinator, and classroom teacher. In 2010 she joined the Gladstone Area Schools as a classroom teacher and staff trainer where she supported those in the classroom by collaborating with teachers and other staff through improved curricula, lesson plans, assessments, and classroom management techniques to champion student success. She was then selected to serve as a member of the administrative team as a principal at Jones Elementary (grades 3-5) and also at Cameron Elementary (grades RK-2). In 2021 she joined Bark River-Harris Schools as the district’s student success coordinator where she worked with students in grades K-12 and oversaw the Student Success Department which included a team consisting of a behavioral interventionist, speech pathologist, academic interventionist, paraprofessionals, and collaborated with the Delta-Schoolcraft ISD Project AWARE Team.

Throughout her career, Hansen has been a dedicated educator ensuring that schools are safe and supportive environments for all students. She believes that each student deserves to have a tireless advocate pushing them to do their best.

“I am delighted to join the Manistique Area Schools,” Hansen said. “I appreciate the warm welcome that I have already received and am looking forward to leading the district forward.”

“We are very pleased to welcome Dr. Hansen to Manistique,” Rae Birr, MAS board president, said. “With her strong background through her own pursuit of education excellence along with her rich experience and tireless dedication to serving all students, we are excited for the next chapter in our District. We look forward to seeing our Emeralds shine in all ways possible.”

Hansen is married to Jeff, who has served with the Delta County Sheriff’s Department at the Delta County Correctional Facility for 25 years. The lifelong Delta County residents are relocating to the Manistique area prior to the new year. They have two adult children, Natalie and John.