Bridgman Public Schools is moving closer to naming its next superintendent as current Superintendent Shane Peters prepares to retire next June.

On Tuesday, the board of education interviewed two candidates. They were Dr. Sarita Stevens, the deputy superintendent for the South Bend Community School Corporation, and Thomas Reed, the principal of Otsego High School.

The board says after deliberation, it’s selected Reed as the sole finalist and has invited him back for a second interview. That interview is set for Wednesday, December 3 at 6 p.m. at F.C. Reed Middle School, and the public is encouraged to attend.

Reed has led Otsego High School since 2022 and previously served as principal at Lawrence High School for five years.

Before the interview on December 3, he’ll tour the district and talk community members during a public meet-and-greet from 5 to 5:45 p.m.