District news
Board minutes record approval of a new Ionia Middle School principal

What happened
The board approved hiring a new Ionia Middle School principal in a 6–0 vote. The minutes do not clearly identify the appointee: they name Patrice Phelps as the recommended Emerson Elementary principal, then record a motion approving an Ionia Middle School principal; board members subsequently congratulated Tim on his new position.
Why it matters to families
A principal appointment is a consequential leadership change for Ionia Middle School, but the minutes' conflicting school and candidate references leave the appointee's identity unclear.
The evidence
August 17, 2026 minutes: following the presentation of Patrice Phelps as the recommended Emerson Elementary principal, the motion is recorded as approving the hiring of a “new Ionia Middle School Principal” and carried 6–0. Board comments include “Congrats Tim” and “Congrats on the new position Tim.”
The source
August 17, 2026 at 7:00 PM - Regular Meeting Meeting Type: Regular — MinutesSee the full record for Ionia Public Schools.
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