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- calendar_today November 8, 2026
Howard Vaas to Step Down After Decades-Long Career
Howard Vaas, the longtime business manager for Manistee Area Public Schools (MAPS), has announced he will retire at the end of 2026, concluding nearly 33 years with the district. Vaas, who grew up in Manistee and graduated from Manistee High School in 1984, returned to his hometown in a professional capacity in 1994 after working for an audit firm that counted the district as a client. "I joined the district and never left," Vaas said of his early days with MAPS.
A Legacy of Support and Stewardship
Throughout his tenure, Vaas prioritized responsible financial management and supporting school staff. Reflecting on his career, Vaas noted, "I really respect everybody at the school and the work that the teachers do. I could never do that, but being a part of that and supporting them is what I enjoyed about the job." His emphasis on fiscal responsibility was central to his role. "I've just always felt that there was a great responsibility to be fiscally responsible with the public's money. That's kind of been my focus. I feel like I'm leaving things in a good place, and I'm happy about that," he said.
Colleagues Also Prepare for Departure
Vaas is not the only business office leader preparing to move on. Assistant business manager Sue Gustad is also set to retire. MAPS superintendent Ron Stoneman expressed gratitude for Gustad's contributions at a recent board meeting, stating, "Sue, thank you for everything. Job well done on all of Howard's work that you did. It's been a pleasure." Vaas's and Gustad's institutional knowledge presents a challenge for the district's leadership as they look to fill both roles.
Transition and Hiring Ahead
The dual retirements mean MAPS must find successors for two key positions tied to the financial and operational management of the district. Superintendent Stoneman acknowledged the difficulty of the transition, saying, "This business operations position is going to be a challenge. We've got institutional knowledge between Sue and Howard. Those seem like multiple-people jobs as they go out. This is going to be some work." The district has posted job openings and is seeking qualified candidates for these essential roles, hoping to onboard new staff efficiently.
Looking Forward
As he looks forward to retirement, Vaas plans to continue enjoying life in Manistee. "Just enjoy Manistee as a retiree," he said of his future plans. His departure, alongside Gustad's, marks the end of an era for MAPS and the beginning of a staff transition aimed at maintaining the district’s commitment to fiscal responsibility and educational support.
Source: manisteenews.com.
