Midland High Administrators Finalists for MASSP Awards
Midland High School’s Schurman, Wenzell Named Finalists for MASSP Awards
October 9, 2025 - Midland Public Schools (MPS) is proud to announce that two of its high school administrators have been named finalists for awards from the Michigan Association of Secondary School Principals (MASSP). Midland High School Principal Tiela Schurman has been selected as a finalist for the High School Principal of the Year, and Midland High Assistant Principal Matt Wenzell has been selected as a finalist for High School Assistant Principal of the Year.
Tiela Schurman
A dedicated school leader with 23 years of experience in education and 17 years as an administrator, Tiela Schurman has served as principal of Midland High School since 2021. She also previously served as both assistant principal and principal at Jefferson Middle School. Since joining MPS in 2016, Schurman has driven numerous initiatives to support student success and staff development, including the implementation of Positive Behavioral Interventions and Supports (PBIS) and data-informed intervention systems, as well as the launch of tutoring and math support programs that help close learning gaps. A 2018 Gerstacker Fellow and active district representative on multiple community initiatives, Schurman’s leadership fosters collaboration, encourages continuous improvement, and incorporates inclusive practices that support both academic achievement and social-emotional well-being. She holds a bachelor’s degree in secondary education from Arizona State University and a master’s degree in educational leadership from Northern Arizona University.
Matt Wenzell
In his 24 years as an educator, including 15 years as an administrator, Matt Wenzell has developed a reputation as a compassionate and forward-thinking leader. Since joining MPS and Midland High as an assistant principal in 2017, Wenzell has championed social-emotional learning, restorative practices, and mental health awareness, while implementing policies and programs that enhance student support and foster a positive school culture. Through initiatives such as developing a comprehensive school resource center, refining intervention processes, and establishing effective cell phone policies, he has demonstrated a proactive and responsive approach to creating a positive school climate that emphasizes empathy, relationships, and community-building. Wenzell holds a master’s degree in educational leadership/principalship from Saginaw Valley State University.
“We are thrilled to celebrate Tiela and Matt for these well-deserved recognitions,” said Superintendent Penny Miller-Nelson. “Their exceptional dedication and leadership within Midland Public Schools and at Midland High School are driving meaningful progress for our school community by creating a supportive, inclusive school culture where all Chemics have the opportunity to succeed. Their combined efforts are strengthening both academic achievement and student wellbeing, living up to our mission of inspiring excellence every day.”
MASSP, in partnership with the Michigan Association of Student Councils & Honor Societies, recognizes outstanding administrators at the high school and middle school levels each year. State-level winners are then advanced for consideration in the National Association of Secondary School Principals’ national awards program. Winners for the Principal and Assistant Principal of the Year awards will be announced by the MASSP later this year.
