The Engadine Consolidated Schools Board of Education has appointed longtime educator and administrator Heather Luoto as the district’s new superintendent. Her appointment became effective July 16.
Luoto has spent most of her career serving Engadine Consolidated Schools, working as a science teacher, instructional coach and K-12 administrator. District officials said her years of experience provide a strong understanding of the district’s operations, culture and commitment to student achievement.
As K-12 administrator, Luoto worked alongside district leadership, the Eastern Upper Peninsula Intermediate School District and the Board of Education in overseeing a wide range of responsibilities, including school improvement initiatives, human resources, budgeting, strategic planning, scheduling, professional development, student services, special education, staff evaluations and community engagement.
“Mrs. Luoto has demonstrated an unwavering commitment to the students, staff and families of Engadine Consolidated Schools,” Board President Daryl Schroeder said. “Her proven leadership, dedication to academic excellence and vision for the future make her exceptionally well-qualified to lead our district into its next chapter.”
Among Luoto’s accomplishments has been leading the district’s Probationary and Non-Certified Teacher Professional Learning Community while overseeing K-12 curriculum and assessment alignment. District officials said those efforts strengthened instructional practices, improved teacher retention and contributed to gains in student achievement.
Those improvements were reflected in the 2025 Mackinac Center for Public Policy Michigan Context and Performance Report Card, where Engadine Consolidated Schools earned an “A” rating and ranked in the 97.76th percentile. The district placed No. 49 among Michigan’s Top 100 Public Elementary and Middle Schools and was recognized as No. 25 among the state’s Top 100 Most Improved Public Elementary and Middle Schools.
Luoto also helped expand Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and restorative justice practices throughout the district, initiatives designed to improve school climate by strengthening relationships, increasing student accountability and fostering a more supportive learning environment.
District officials also credited Luoto with helping grow enrollment through the Schools of Choice program. Today, Schools of Choice students account for approximately 46 percent of the district’s enrollment.
To prepare for the superintendent’s role, Luoto completed the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators (MASA) Horizon Leadership Academy and earned her Central Office Administrator endorsement. During the past four years as K-12 administrator, she has continued developing expertise in educational leadership, governance, school law, organizational improvement and strategic planning.
“I am honored to serve as superintendent of Engadine Consolidated Schools,” Luoto said. “I care deeply about our students, staff, families and community. Together, we will continue building on our successes, expanding opportunities for every student and ensuring Engadine remains a destination district known for excellence.”
