Shaker Heights Superintendent Stepping Down

SHAKER HEIGHTS, OH — Shaker Heights Schools Superintendent Gregory Hutchings is stepping down, the district announced on Thursday. Hutchings is returning to his hometown of Alexandria, Va. where he will become superintendent of the Alexandria City Public Schools.

"Shaker has truly been a remarkable place to live, work and advocate for public education,” Hutchings said. “Throughout the past five years, we've achieved much success in the Shaker Schools and I know that it would not be possible without our hard-working and dedicated team of students, faculty, staff, administrators, board members, parents and community."

"I want to sincerely thank you for this extraordinary opportunity to serve our wonderful community as your Superintendent of Schools," he added.

He also said that by returning to his hometown to make positive contributions to that community, he hopes he inspires Shaker Heights alumnus to return home and do the same.

The search for Hutchings' successor will begin immediately and will be led by the Shaker Heights Board of Education. Starting in January 2018, the Board will either hire an interim superintendent or begin a national search for a permanent replacement.

The outgoing and incoming Board members have already held discussion about how to proceed in the search for Hutchings' replacement. "We all agree the Board and the District are well-positioned to manage and embrace this transition. We look forward to the opportunities that it presents for the entire school community," the new and old Board members said in a statement.

“It has been a pleasure to work with Dr. Hutchings during his time here in Shaker and we are extremely grateful for all of his efforts, which leave Shaker Heights Schools in a stronger position going forward,” said Shaker Heights Board of Education President Alex Liston Dykema.

Hutchings became Shaker's superintendent in 2013. During his tenure with the district, he expanded the International Baccalaureate (IB) Organization to all buildings and programs in grades PreK-12. He also oversaw the passing of a $30 million bond levy and Shaker's first permanent improvement levy.

Photo from Shaker Heights Schools