As outgoing Alexandria City Public Schools Superintendent Melanie Kay-Wyatt takes an unexpected leave, the School Board has designated three administrators to handle her duties.
School Board Chair Michelle Rief announced in an email to ACPS families and staff that Kay-Wyatt is going on leave due “to a matter that arose unexpectedly.” On Tuesday night (June 23), the School Board appointed ACPS Chief of Staff Grace Taylor, Chief Accountability Officer Clinton Page and Chief Academic Officer Pierrette Finney as designees of the division superintendent.
“As an organization, we recognize the importance of supporting employees as they attend to personal and family responsibilities, and we are committed to providing that support during this time,” Rief said, without disclosing why Kay-Wyatt is taking leave.
An ACPS spokesperson told ALXnow Kay-Wyatt is on leave as of this week. Kay-Wyatt announced her resignation in March, and her last official day is Sept. 30.
“During Dr. Kay-Wyatt’s leave, the School Board-approved superintendent designees will work collaboratively and in partnership to oversee the day-to-day operations of the school division and ensure continuity of leadership, services and support for our students, staff and families,” Rief said.
Kay-Wyatt has served as superintendent since 2022, stepping into the interim role after the resignation of former Superintendent Gregory Hutchings Jr. At the time of her promotion, she was the school system’s human resources chief. Her appointment became permanent in 2023.
Rief thanked Kay-Wyatt for her work in the school system.
“Please join me in extending our appreciation to Dr. Kay-Wyatt for her leadership and service to our school community, and ask that members of the community respect her privacy during this time,” Rief said.
The School Board has recruited an executive search firm to seek a new superintendent. The new superintendent is expected to be announced in October.
