Dr. Derrick Hall, on behalf of the Board of Education:
After careful consideration by the Akron School Board and the superintendent, we have agreed that Christine Fowler Mack will resign from her role as superintendent effective March 4, 2023. The board will be working with her to support a transition in leadership until then. This mutual agreement allows Ms. Fowler Mack the opportunity to pursue new endeavors and the board to appoint new leadership for Akron Public Schools.
While the board remains appreciative of Fowler Mack’s service as superintendent, it has accepted her voluntary resignation. We are excited for her next chapter and excited for new leadership to guide Akron Public Schools in the future.
Our current Executive Director of Elementary Education, Mary Outley, will serve as our interim superintendent of schools. As a respected and long-standing member of our Akron community, we are confident that Mary will provide the strong leadership and continuity needed to ensure the continued success of Akron Public Schools. She has our full support. There is much optimism on the board as we move forward united with a clear compelling vision for the future.
As the board searches for the next superintendent, it will look for candidates who will unify our parents, educators, students and community by leading with sensitivity, collaboration and an equity-centered approach. The board is committed to recruiting and supporting leadership that empowers students, teachers and parents.
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Statement from Christine Fowler Mack:
It is never easy to leave a place we love. My decision to leave Akron Public Schools was made easier by my knowing the outstanding work, increased supports, scholar focus and measurable progress I was privileged to lead since I was named superintendent in 2021. My decision to separate at a time of such pivotal change and opportunity for APS was made with careful thought, prayer and discussions with my family.
In this moment of transition for APS, I will forever be grateful for the opportunity to serve Akron’s children, whose hopes for the future rest in our hands. With all my heart, I have faith that our amazing staff, families and community will remain determined, hopeful, engaged and optimistic in the district I will always call my home.