New Leadership Brings Experience and Cultural Competency to Holt Public Schools

*HOLT, MI* — The Holt Public Schools Board of Education announced Friday it selected Hal Heard III to be the district's next superintendent, bringing fresh leadership and decades of educational experience to the community.

Heard, who most recently worked for Plymouth Canton Community Schools (P-CCS), was chosen after a thorough interview process that included community input through online surveys and face-to-face candidate interviews.

Decades of Educational Leadership

Heard brings significant experience to the role, having served for 13 years at P-CCS where he most recently held the position of executive director of student services. His career at Plymouth Canton included multiple leadership roles:

  • Executive director of student services
  • Executive director of high school education
  • High school principal

"I am thrilled to join the incredible team at Holt Public Schools and lead the district's exceptional students and staff," Heard said. "The Holt Public community is special, and I am honored to have been selected as the district's next superintendent. I am committed to leading Holt Public into the future and being a part of all the great things happening at our district."

The board selected Heard based on his demonstrated cultural competency, ethical integrity, and collaborative spirit. These qualities position him well to champion every student and staff member within the diverse Holt Public community.

Transition from Dr. Hornak

Dr. David Hornak, who had been serving as superintendent, announced he was leaving the school district at the end of the 2026 school year. The transition marks a new chapter for Holt Public Schools as it moves forward with Heard at the helm.

The board's search process was comprehensive, gathering feedback from the community through various channels to ensure the best candidate was selected for this important leadership position.

Looking Ahead

As Holt Public Schools enters this new era under Heard's leadership, the district remains committed to providing world-class education and preparing students for success. The board's confidence in Heard's qualifications suggests a strong foundation for the district's future initiatives and continued growth.

The new superintendent will begin his role immediately, bringing his extensive background in student services, high school education, and school administration to the Holt Public Schools community.