Superintendent resigns following extended medical leave
Birmingham Public Schools Superintendent Mark Dziatczak has resigned, four months after he took an extended medical leave.
The Board of Education has sent requests for proposals to superintendent search firms, according to a release from the district.
George Heitsch, who has served as interim superinten- dent since shortly af- ter Dziatczak’s departure in late October, will continue in that role through the end of the 2020-21 school year, the statement said.
The district has not released details of Dziatczak’s condition.
Dziatczak released the following statement through the district:
“I want to express my gratitude to the BPS community for its support during a challenging time for me and my family. I have been doing well and will make a full recovery, however a return in the immediate future will not be possible. As I focus on my continued health as well as the immediate needs within BPS, I have made the difficult decision to resign from my position effective February 23, 2021. This decision will allow BPS to begin the task of finding the next superintendent as soon as possible who can provide focused leadership and prepare for the summer, upcoming school year and beyond. I am grateful to the Board of Education for its support, as well as the numerous new friends I gained in the BPS community.”
Dziatczak became superintendent in January 2019, following the retirement of Daniel Nerad. He previously served as deputy superintendent in the Troy School District.
“It has been an honor to serve with Mr. Dziatczak,” said Kim Whitman, board president. “His work to bring long-term financial support to the district through the $195 million bond and Headlee Amendment, as well as his enthusiasm and support for our students and staff will have a lasting, positive impact on our district. We wish him good health and sincerely thank him for serving our district.”
Dziatczak became superintendent in January 2019, following the retirement of Daniel Nerad. He previously served as deputy superintendent in the Troy School District.