Updated May 11, 2021
Cincinnati Public Schools Superintendent Laura Mitchell is resigning from the job she's held since 2017. She made announcement at Monday night's board meeting. Mitchell is leaving to take the top job at Beech Acres Parenting Center.
In a release Monday, Mitchell said she was leaving "to pursue an unexpected professional opportunity." Her last day with the district will be June 11.
Mitchell takes over at Beech Acres as president and CEO on June 15. She's filling the role previously held by Jim Mason, who is retiring.
"I'm excited to embrace this new calling as president and CEO of Beech Acres Parenting Center and build on the achievements of the past 42 years under Jim's leadership,” Mitchell says in a release. "I look forward to being a part of the effort to help more children, families and caregivers unlock the power they already have to fully thrive during these challenging times."
Mitchell has served on the Beech Acres Board of Directors since 2016.
A native of Cincinnati, Mitchell has been with Cincinnati Public Schools for 27 years, the last four as its superintendent. Under her leadership, enrollment grew from 64.3% to 68.5% and CPS opened seven new schools in five years to keep up with increased enrollment.
"As we leave the old shore mentioned quite a few times - the education during the pandemic, and pre-pandemic - we look to a new coast," Mitchell said Monday. "New shore of opportunities. It’s time for a transition. Tonight I'm announcing publicly that I'm resigning as superintendent of CPS."
Some board members were visibly upset at the news. President Carolyn Jones remarked how it was hard to read her comments through "foggy" glasses. "I wish you the best in your next endeavor and have no doubt of your success," Jones said. "You have served our students, staff and community with intelligence, grace and integrity. Personally, I will greatly miss your friendship and guidance. Thank you for all you have done for us."
Jones said the board would name an interim superintendent by May 24 while they also search for her successor.
