Mark Wegienka earned the reputation of outstanding educator and humanitarian, one who devoted himself wholeheartedly to helping all in the school-community to realize their utmost potential.

After completing his formal education, Mr. Wegienka entered the education profession at Eurekadale School in 1941. In 1943, he was named teacher-principal of Hand School, and became superintendent of that district in 1954. In 1968, Mr. Wegienka was appointed first superintendent of the newly formed Woodhaven School District, a post he held until his retirement in 1976.

While at Hand School, Mr. Wegienka was described as the “Albert Schweitzer of Southern Wayne County,” because of his deep concern and hard work on behalf of needy children and families in this region.

Mark Wegienka’s wife Jean and daughter, Patricia have also worked in the teaching field, as have many of his former students. He lived his profound, yet simple, philosophy throughout his 35 year career; “Find out what people really need, not just what you think they need. Give them your very best, but be humble about it. Try to make people happy, after all, every person is a child of God.”

Wegienka Elementary School was pleased to honor this fine man by giving his name to their school. The thought was, if we can “do unto others” as he has done, we are sure to be successful.

Mr. Wegienka continues to help out at Wegienka Elementary by reading to students at Guest Reader Day, and will often attend additional functions at the school.