Dexter High School has a New Principal

The new Principal of Dexter High School said she’s “grateful and humbled for the opportunity to lead this school into its next chapter.”

Dexter Community Schools (DCS) announced on April 7, “the selection of Theresa Stager as the next principal of Dexter High School. With more than thirteen years of experience in educational leadership and eight years of classroom teaching, Stager brings a strong record of instructional leadership, collaborative culture-building, and a deep commitment to student success.”

“Dexter High School has a tradition of academic excellence, a dedicated staff, and a community that genuinely values education,” Stager said in the announcement. “I’m grateful and humbled for the opportunity to lead this school into its next chapter. My commitment is to listen first, learn deeply, and work alongside this community to ensure every student experiences the highest levels of learning and belonging.”

Also in the announcement, DCS Superintendent Ryan Bruder said, “Dr. Theresa Stager brings to Dexter a deep understanding of Washtenaw County schools and a strong track record of leadership within the SEC. Her experience advancing Career and Technical Education, Early Middle College programming, and student-centered pathways will help expand opportunities for all learners. We are confident that her vision, commitment to excellence, strong staff relationships, and dedication to student success make her the ideal choice to lead Dexter High School into its next chapter.”

Stager most recently served as Saline High School (SHS) Principal since 2022, and was SHS’s Assistant Principal for Curriculum and Instruction from 2016-2022. DCS said Stager began her teaching career at Anchor Bay Schools in 2003, where she was a K-12 Music Educator.

According to DCS, Stager earned a Doctor of Education degree in Leadership and Innovation from Arizona State University. She has also completed a Master of Public Administration in Assessment and Evaluation from the University of Michigan–Dearborn, and has a Bachelor of Music Education from Wayne State University. She also holds both a Michigan School Administrator Certificate (K–12) and a Michigan Professional Teaching Certificate.

In addition to her school administration and classroom experience, DCS said Stager is a published author and nationally recognized voice in educational leadership. She co-authored Breaking Out of Isolation: Becoming a Connected School Leader and has contributed to several other professional publications. She is also an active presenter, mentor, and podcast host, contributing to leadership development at both the state and national level.

Stager will begin her role as DHS Principal on July 1, 2026. Former DHS Principal Melanie Nowak is now DCS Chief Academic Officer.

“Dexter Community Schools looks forward to the leadership, expertise, and energy she will bring to our school community,” DCS said in the announcement.

Photo: Theresa Stager. Photo courtesy of Theresa Stager