Former Walled Lake Consolidated Schools’ Director of Operations wins statewide award

Former Walled Lake Consolidated Schools’ Director of Operations, Bill Chatfield, received the Gus Kihlstrand Service Award for his dedication to the Michigan education community for over 30 years.

Chatfield served as the district’s director of operations for 23 years. During his tenure in Walled Lake, Chatfield managed district facilities and operations, played an integral role in improvements through four bonds, and oversaw the construction of four brand new state-of-the-art school facilities. Chatfield recently started a new role in August 2024 as the executive director of auxiliary services, maintenance, and facility operations at Oakland Schools.

"I am profoundly grateful for the 23 years of dedicated service Bill Chatfield has given to our District,” said Dr. Michael Lonze, Superintendent of School. “His unwavering commitment to maintaining safe, clean, and state-of-the-art learning environments has played a critical role in ensuring our students and staff have the spaces they need to thrive and grow. His work behind the scenes has been nothing short of exceptional, and we are deeply appreciative of his contributions to our school community."

“Bill’s tireless work ethic, compassionate nature, exceptional service, and dedication to Michigan public schools makes him a standout in the educational community,” said SET SEG Risk Control Consultant Tony Spisak, who recommend Chatfield for this award.

The Gus Kihlstrand Service Award was created in 2019 and named after a valued, long-tenured member of the SET SEG organization, and honors the legacy of public school personnel who exemplify exceptional hard work and commitment to their district and community.