Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Darienne Driver will leave her position earlier than previously scheduled, a spokesperson for the district Andy Nelson told TODAY’S TMJ4 Thursday.
Driver’s last day at MPS will now be Sunday instead of staying on into July as originally planned.
Driver announced in April she would be leaving the district after she was named CEO of the United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Driver began her education career as an elementary school teacher in a Detroit public school.
She was appointed Superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools in October 2014.
Shortly after her announcement MPS named Dr. Keith Posley interim superintendent, who is scheduled to start on May 21.
Driver issued the following statement Thursday:
May 20 will be my last day as Superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools. It has been an honor and a privilege to work with our students, teachers, families, principals, administrators, and community partners during the past six years - two years as the district's first Chief Innovation Officer and four years as the first female Superintendent of Schools.
I am proud of the success MPS and our children have experienced during this time. More students are graduating; early literacy rates are improving; our young people have access to more rigorous academic programs and extra-curricular opportunities; and our connections with the community have grown, bringing more resources and support to our schools and students.
I love and have given my heart and soul to serving Milwaukee Public Schools and have no regrets. I am disappointed in the way my exit has been handled. It has taken time, energy, and attention away from the celebrations our young people are experiencing during this season of celebration, hope and new beginnings.
I am thankful to the village that has supported our schools and students; our families who have trusted us with the education of their children; the talented students we serve; and my colleagues in schools and Central Services.
I know we will stay focused on what matters most - the success of our young people. Continue your good work for our students and schools. I will always be MPS Proud.
