Board of Education completes superintendent’s evaluation

The Board of Education for Springfield Public Schools has completed its first performance evaluation of the new superintendent, Dr. Grenita Lathan. The BOE unanimously approved a one-year extension, through the 2024-2025 school year, as an amendment to her initial three-year contract. Dr. Lathan has been superintendent since July 1, 2021.

 

“Dr. Lathan’s relational and thoughtful leadership is appreciated by our Board of Education, and we support her on-going efforts to listen, assess and make needed adjustments to best serve our students, teachers and parents,” said Dr. Alina Lehnert, president of the SPS Board of Education. “We note that her thorough entry plan discoveries provide her with a springboard to collaboratively set intentional goals with the Board in order to maximize our district in the coming years.”

 

Dr. Lathan devoted her first three months to listening and learning, engaging with the district and Springfield community in a variety of in-person and virtual settings. In December, Dr. Lathan presented her Entry Plan, which highlights challenges and celebrations for SPS and outlines her vision for moving forward. 

 

“During the first six months in my new home, I have learned much about SPS and the Springfield community,” said Dr. Lathan. “There is much to celebrate and also great potential for continued growth at SPS. I am grateful to the Board of Education for its support and leadership as we work together to best serve our students, employees and community. I am excited about the work ahead.”

 

Prior to joining SPS in July 2021, Dr. Lathan's previous professional experience included serving in leadership roles with Houston Independent School District, Peoria Public Schools and San Diego Unified School District. 

 

She has a Doctor of Philosophy in Workforce Education and Development from Southern Illinois University, Carbondale; a Master of Science in Business Education from University of North Carolina, Greensboro; and a Bachelor of Science in Business Education from North Carolina A&T State University, Greensboro.