AKRON, Ohio – The Akron Public Schools Board of Education accepted the resignation of Superintendent Christine Fowler Mack at Monday’s board meeting.
Fowler Mack, who was the first woman to lead Akron schools since the district was created in 1847, will step down from her role on March 4, according to a statement from the board.
“It is never easy to leave a place we love,” Fowler Mack said in a statement. “My decision to leave Akron Public Schools was made easier by my knowledge of 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 discussion with my family. In this moment of transition for APS, I will be forever 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.”
Said board president Derrick Hall in a statement: “While the board remains appreciative of Ms. 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.”
Mary Outley will serve as interim superintendent while the district searches for Fowler Mack’s replacement, according to a statement from the school board. Outley currently serves as executive director of elementary education for the district.
“As a respected and long-standing member of our Akron community, we are confident that Ms. Outley 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,” Hall said in the statement.
Fowler Mack’s resignation comes as the district last month approved a three-year contract with the teachers’ union, narrowly averting a strike. While both sides agreed to annual wage increases and no increases to health insurance premiums, work to reduce violence in schools remains an ongoing priority for the district.
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