Pontiac Board Hires Second Interim Superintendent in Two Months

The Pontiac Board of Education voted on Oct. 28 to appoint Dr. Donald Weatherspoon as the district's new interim superintendent. This marks the second time in under three months that the board has filled the role after the permanent superintendent departed.

Dr. Kimberly Leverette, the district's permanent superintendent, went on leave earlier this year. On Aug. 17, the board selected Jennifer Dean to serve as interim superintendent. Dean announced her decision to step down less than three months after taking the position, leading to Weatherspoon's recent approval.

Parents in the district have expressed frustration over the rapid turnover and the manner in which the changes were communicated. Lara Marie Townsley, a parent of two students in Pontiac schools and a candidate for board trustee, stated that families feel they are merely receiving information rather than participating in major decisions.

Townsley advocated for listening sessions and town halls to ensure parental input is considered. She noted that when large decisions affect the entire district, such forums allow families to feel their concerns are being weighed properly.

Teachers in the district have raised specific objections to Weatherspoon's appointment. Candice Ridley, president of the Pontiac Education Association, the local teachers union, said many educators are unhappy with the choice due to Weatherspoon's previous tenure in the district.

Ridley described the atmosphere during Weatherspoon's earlier time in the district as one of tension. She recalled that teachers and staff remained on edge because they were unsure when the next challenge would arise. She added that many staff members felt Dean cared for them during her short interim period.

The district declined a request to interview the new interim superintendent immediately following the vote. Instead, district leaders provided a copy of a letter sent by Dean to staff and families upon her departure.