AKRON, Ohio — Akron Public Schools Superintendent Christine Fowler-Mack has resigned, 19 months into her three-year contract.
The school board voted Monday night to approve a separation agreement for Fowler-Mack.
“This is not a day of mourning or a day of sadness,” said Derrick Hall, Akron Public School Board president. “This is a day for celebration.”
Hall said he is feeling hopeful after the vote to approve the resignation. The separation agreement will pay out the remainder of Fowler-Mack’s contract, in the amount of $441,000, in addition to her vacation and sick days.
“This is a win-win for all parties moving forward, and I just cannot be more excited about what the future holds for Akron Public Schools,” Hall said.
The former superintendent, whose last day was Feb. 13, is an Akron native whose time in the role included the threat of a teachers strike and complaints from teachers about classroom safety.
Fowler-Mack issued a statement that said in part, “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.” She also said she’s grateful for the opportunity to serve Akron’s children.
Until March 4, Fowler-Mack will work from home as an education administrator, potentially working with the board during this transitional period.
“There will be some in the community that are going to point to things that have happened historically in the last 18 months as the reasons for why we are at where we are,” Hall said. “And I can tell you in full transparency that those things were not factors here.”
Mary Outley is now serving as the district’s interim superintendent. She has worked at the district for more than 30 years, with her most recent role being the executive director for elementary education.
“She’s done a lot of jobs in this district with progressing responsibilities and has always had rave reviews and has always had a reputation with establishing very positive relationships, like when she smiles, you smile,” Hall said.
Akron Public Schools parent Kristen Hammer said she believes having a superintendent who understands the district’s demographics will help the district and its students thrive.
“Akron has a lot more poverty-stricken areas, and a lot of the kids go through a lot of different things, and even neighborhoods can be different from the next street,” she said.
Hall said their goal is to have a permanent superintendent by Aug. 1.
