About Us

Message from the Superintendent

Thank you for selecting Charlevoix Public Schools! Serving as the superintendent of the Charlevoix Public School District is an honor. Now in my 10th year with CPS and 34th year in education, I eagerly anticipate this school year and look forward to sharing more about my background with the CPS community.

Following my graduation with a teaching degree from Mankato State University, my educational journey began in 1991 as a fourth-grade teacher in Big Rapids, MI. During this time, I also had the privilege of coaching track and cross country. Subsequently, in 1993, I pursued a master’s degree in educational leadership from Central Michigan University, furthering my educational qualifications. In 1998, I transitioned into the role of an elementary principal in Ludington, a position I held for 17 years.

In 2013, I returned to the classroom to pursue an educational specialist degree from Grand Valley State University, which significantly prepared me for my ultimate aspiration of becoming a superintendent. The opportunity to join Charlevoix presented itself in 2015 when the superintendent position became available. With enthusiasm, I applied and was appointed by the board of education, beginning my tenure on July 1, 2015.

Family holds a significant place in my life. My wife, Julie, from England and raised in Scotland, works as an optometrist at the Grand Traverse Ophthalmology Clinic (GTOC). We are proud parents to four children: Matthew, a patent attorney in Washington, D.C.; David, a CPS graduate and software consultant for Dynatrace in Lansing; Alan,  a CPS graduate, who will start at the Michigan College of Optometry in the fall; and Kate, our youngest, a 2024 CPS graduate who will be a freshman at Ferris State University in August.

During my time at CPS, I have had the privilege of collaborating with outstanding staff, board of education members, students, families, and community partners. I remain committed to serving the district and community in the years to come. 

Go Rayders! 

Mike Ritter, Superintendent