'It has been an honor:' Superintendent Darienne Driver to leave MPS sooner than planned

MILWAUKEE -- Darienne Driver will step down as superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools (MPS) sooner than planned. Her last day scheduled day at MPS has been moved from from July 6 to May 20.

Driver will take on the job of president and CEO for United Way for Southeastern Michigan.

"The impact of  your work as Superintendent has had an immeasurable impact not only on the members of the MPS family, but on the entire Milwaukee community," said Larry Miller, District 5 Director and Board Vice President. "I am grateful for you and all that you have given to MPS and your outstanding leadership."

The Board voted to approve May 20, as Driver's last day.

Driver shared the following statement:

"Dear MPS Community,

May 20 will be my last day as Superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools. It has been an honor and a privilege to work with our students, teachers, families, principals, administrators, and community partners during the past six years - two years as the district's first Chief Innovation Officer and four years as the first female Superintendent of Schools.

I am proud of the success MPS and our children have experienced during this time. More students are graduating; early literacy rates are improving; our young people have access to more rigorous academic programs and extra-curricular opportunities; and our connections with the community have grown, bringing more resources and support to our schools and students.

I love and have given my heart and soul to serving Milwaukee Public Schools and have no regrets. I am disappointed in the way my exit has been handled. It has taken time, energy, and attention away from the celebrations our young people are experiencing during this season of celebration, hope and new beginnings.

I am thankful to the village that has supported our schools and students; our families who have trusted us with the education of their children; the talented students we serve; and my colleagues in schools and Central Services.

I know we will stay focused on what matters most - the success of our young people. Continue your good work for our students and schools. I will always be MPS Proud."


Driver said she’s going back to where it all began — Detroit, where she started her career as an elementary school teacher.

"This is a once-in-a lifetime opportunity to use the power of collective impact and equity to improve the lives of young people, their families and the communities in which they live,” said Driver in a statement.