July 28, 2022

Announcement from the Board of Education President

letterheadJuly 28, 2022

Dear Grand Ledge Public Schools staff, parents, students and community,

I write to you today to inform you that Dr. Marcus Davenport has notified the school board of his intention to resign from his position, effective August 5, due to an unexpected and serious health issue. From his very first day at our district just over a year ago, Dr. Davenport has approached his work with an unmatched focus and sense of urgency. The nature of his health challenges now requires that he and his family take that same approach on a personal level so that he can make a full recovery. 

Dr. Davenport has requested that the board of education waive the 90-day resignation notice required in his contract so that he may begin focusing his full attention on his health.  It is my hope that my fellow board members will agree to his request when the board holds a special meeting on August 5th. 

At the same meeting, the board will discuss appointing current Assistant Superintendent Dr. Bill Barnes as Acting Superintendent. He is a life-long Comet whose leadership and dedication to the district will serve our students, staff and community well during this period of transition. At our regular August 8th meeting, the board will discuss how to best fill the Superintendent role permanently. 

Please join me in thanking Dr. Davenport for his service to our community and in wishing him a full and speedy recovery. He worked tirelessly to hold our district to the highest academic standards while also navigating the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. His focus on engaging a diverse community of stakeholders in long-term strategic planning that will keep our students and greater community on the path toward success is greatly appreciated. 

Jon Shiflett, President
Grand Ledge Public Schools 
Board of Education

 

Dr. Davenport's Resignation Letter