ADRIAN, MI – The Lenawee Intermediate School District (LISD) has announced several key administrative changes and restructuring efforts aimed at enhancing educational services across Lenawee County. While acknowledging the significant loss of institutional knowledge due to recent retirements, Superintendent Mark Haag emphasizes LISD’s commitment to continuity and innovation. He is confident that the skilled educators and administrators stepping into these roles will maintain excellence in services and support for students, staff, and schools in Lenawee County.
Retirements
Jody Howard, Assistant Superintendent of Special Education & Strategic Initiatives, retired on June 30, 2024, after a distinguished 45-year career with LISD, spending the latter half in Special Education administration.
Judy Pfund, Executive Director of Finance & Business Services, retired on December 31, 2024, concluding 24 years of dedicated service to the district.
Brian Jones, Executive Director of Curriculum, Instruction, & General Services, will retire on June 30, 2025. Over his 18-year tenure with LISD, he has served in multiple leadership roles, including Technology & Professional Development Coordinator and Curriculum Consultant. He has been instrumental in advancing Multi-Tiered Systems of Support (MTSS) initiatives, positioning Lenawee County as a leader in this area.
Appointments and Restructuring
Alena York, formerly LISD Assistant Director of Special Education, has been appointed Executive Director of Special Education as of July 1, 2024. Alena, who joined LISD in 2006, brings experience as a School Psychologist, Regional Supervisor, and Assistant Director of Special Education.
Julie VanBlack has been promoted from Regional Special Education Supervisor to Assistant Director of Special Education, effective July 1, 2024. She began her LISD career as a Special Education Teacher specializing in Emotional Impairments and later transitioned to a supervisory role.
Wendy Rokita was hired as Executive Director of Finance & Business Services, assuming the role on November 18, 2024. Wendy brings 17 years of experience as a Business Manager at Addison Community Schools and additional experience as a Payroll Specialist for Michigan Center School District.
Jenny Heath, current Executive Director of Career & Technical Education (CTE) & Secondary Programs, has been recommended for the position of Assistant Superintendent of CTE and Instruction/General Services, effective July 1, 2025. Her recommendation will be presented at the LISD Board of Education meeting in April. Jenny began her LISD career in 2014 as a Curriculum Consultant and Instructional Coach before moving into leadership roles at the LISD TECH Center. She has excelled in her role as Executive Director of CTE & Secondary Programs over the past two years.
Jody Howard returned from retirement in fall 2024 to serve in a part-time administrative role as LISD Coordinator of Behavioral Health Services. She oversees 31n Mental Health Services, MiWellness initiatives, and other programs supporting students’ mental health and well-being.
Ashley Pfund assumed the role of LISD Director of Public Relations on February 17, 2025, following the departure of Andrew Munson, who transitioned to a communications role with Washtenaw ISD.
Additionally, LISD is currently accepting applications for the Director of Instruction and General Services position. This role will focus on continuing the district’s strong work in MTSS, curriculum leadership, compliance and reporting, and school improvement services. More information about this and other opportunities at LISD can be found at www.lisd.us under the “Join Our Team” section.
LISD remains dedicated to advancing educational opportunities and outcomes, building upon its strong foundation while embracing new ideas and strategies for the future.
For media inquiries, please contact:
Ashley Pfund, Director of Public Relations
Lenawee Intermediate School District
ashley.pfund@lisd.us
517-265-9840
About Lenawee Intermediate School District
The Lenawee Intermediate School District provides innovative educational leadership and services to the students, families, and schools of Lenawee County. Through collaboration, LISD supports a wide range of programs designed to enhance student success and community engagement.