Robert Monroe named interim superintendent for UCS

Robert Monroe, assistant superintendent for Teaching and Learning, has been named interim superintendent of Utica Community Schools as the Board of Education begins a search to succeed Dr. Christine Johns, who is retiring after 14 years of service to the community.

“As our assistant superintendent for Teaching and Learning, Mr. Monroe is well-prepared to engage both with our team and community,” Board President Dr. Robert A. Ross said. “Over the past decade, Dr. Johns has developed an outstanding and responsive leadership team. As the district moves forward, Mr. Monroe and our leadership will continue to seamlessly ensure that our tradition of educational excellence is maintained in the months ahead.”

Dr. Ross said the UCS Board of Education will begin a national search for a permanent successor for Dr. Johns.

“Dr. Johns is leaving behind a legacy of leadership and innovation,” Dr. Ross said. “We are grateful for the positive impact she has made on our staff and students – now and well into the future.”

Mr. Monroe has been with Utica Community Schools since 2000, serving as principal of Henry Ford II High School and as executive administrator of schools. He also has experience as principal of New Haven High School.

In 2011, he was appointed assistant superintendent for Teaching and Learning serving as the Chief academic officer for Michigan’s second largest school district. In addition to Teaching and Learning, his responsibilities include special education, community education, pupil services and athletics.

Mr. Monroe is the chief architect of the district’s COVID-19 UCS Return to School Plan.

He holds a Bachelor of Arts in Education from Concordia University and a Master of Education from Saginaw Valley State University.

“I look forward to continuing to work closely with Dr. Johns to ensure stability and continuity of excellence during this transition,” Mr. Monroe said.

To seek a permanent successor for Dr. Johns, the Board will establish and communicate a search process that will engage staff and community at various levels in the search, Dr. Ross said.

“Our Board is committed to taking the time necessary to find the next leader to continue the culture of excellence, leadership and service,” Dr. Ross said. “Utica Community Schools offers tremendous value to our state and local community, and we as a board have no doubt that there will be a deep pool of candidates interested in joining our team.”

Http://uticak12.org

Source: Utica Community Schools

Dr. Christine Johns, Superintendent of Schools