Shaker Schools Name Interim Athletic Director

SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH — The Shaker Heights Schools have named an interim athletic director.

Michael Babinec, an English teacher and the high school's varsity baseball coach, will serve as interim athletic director, the district announced. Babinec has been assistant athletic director for the past eight years.

Babinec has worked at Shaker Heights Schools for two decades. His career began at Shaker Heights Middle School, where he taught English. He became English Department Chair and coached both basketball and baseball.

This year, Babinec begins his 14th year at Shaker Heights High, where he teaches English and is varsity baseball coach. He will step away from teaching to focus on his role as interim athletic director.

Don Readance, the former athletic director, is returning to teaching physical education at Shaker Heights High. Readance will also be an assistant girls basketball coach. During Readance's tenure, the district won state championships in hockey, field hockey and boys diving.

He also oversaw planning for the new Raider Athletic Center and Wrestling Room, which will be completed in the fall.

“It’s been a pleasure working with our awesome group of coaches and student athletes and experiencing all their special moments. I’m looking forward to reconnecting with students in the classroom, coaching girls basketball and spending more time with my family,” Readance said. “Our athletics program is in terrific hands with the combination of Mike’s fresh ideas, the Sports Boosters progress and Principal Juli’s leadership.”