Dr. Michael J. Martirano, Superintendent
Dr. Michael J. Martirano became Superintendent of Allegany County Public Schools on July 1, 2025, after being appointed by the Allegany County Board of Education. Coming home to lead the school system is especially meaningful for Dr. Martirano—he grew up in Frostburg and graduated from Beall High School.
With more than 40 years in public education, Dr. Martirano has done it all. He's been a science and math teacher, a principal at elementary, middle, and high schools, a central office administrator, and a superintendent in two Maryland counties. He also served as State Superintendent of Schools for West Virginia and as a Senior Fellow for the Center of Digital Education. Through all his leadership roles, he's happiest when he's in a classroom with students.
Dr. Martirano is also a certified leadership coach, having completed the Leadership Coaching for Organizational Performance program at American University and earned his Associate Certified Coach credential from the International Coaching Federation. He coaches superintendents, educational leaders, principals, and school board members, and is a sought-after speaker at education conferences.
He earned his Bachelor of Science and two Master of Education degrees from the University of Maryland, and his Doctorate in School Management and Instructional Leadership from Nova Southeastern University.
Awards & Recognition
Dr. Martirano has received more than 30 awards during his career, including:
- Maryland Superintendent of the Year
- Outstanding Alumni, College of Education, University of Maryland
- Most Admired CEO (Daily Record, Maryland)
- Innovator of the Year (Daily Record, Maryland)
- Exceptional School Superintendent Leadership Award (National Center for Children and Families)
What He Brings to ACPS
- Experience leading large organizations with budgets over $2.5 billion
- Building strong teams focused on a clear mission
- Coaching and developing leaders at all levels
- Working effectively with school boards
- Making decisions based on data
- Strong communication skills and dynamic public speaking
- Leading change while building lasting relationships
- Creating workplaces where people feel valued and connected
Dr. Martirano is committed to mentoring the next generation of educational leaders and building a school system where relationships matter.
