Posley named permanent MPS superintendent
Just months into his term as interim superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools, Keith Posley has been named to the permanent post.
Milwaukee school board members voted unanimously Tuesday to offer Posley the position.
“It just seemed like a natural fit,” said MPS board President Mark Sain.
“He’s a homegrown talent who has worked in this district for 29 years . ... And folks are impressed with him and direction he’s trying to take the district.”
Posley said he was honored by the decision.
“I’m excited to roll up my sleeves and continue the work we’ve already started,” he said. “Nothing is more important than the success of young people.”
The terms of the contract are still being negotiated, Posley said.
A former teacher and principal, Posley had served as chief of school administration, overseeing administrators across the district, when he was named interim superintendent in April.
He succeeded Darienne Driver, who became president and CEO of United Way of Southeastern Michigan.
His initial contract was for one year, after which board members planned to either hire him or launch a national search.
Posley has vowed to increase academic achievement and accountability, improve school culture, enhance staff development and ensure financial responsibility and transparency.
One of his first actions as interim suthe perintendent was to slash $13.2 million from the central offices and restore $11.6 million that had been cut from classrooms in the 2018-’19 budget, a move cheered by parents and the teachers union.
Amy Mizialko, president of the Milwaukee Teachers Education Association, responded favorably to Posley’s appointment, saying members have been encouraged by his approach so far.
“We have a great deal of work ahead of us, and the MTEA stands ready to work with Superintendent Posley,” she said.