Grand Rapids Community College Board of Trustees member, Brandy Lovelady Mitchell, will continue her employment as Deputy Superintendent at Grand Rapids Public Schools (GRPS). In March, Mitchell was placed on administrative leave from her position until the end of the school year. The district did not disclose a reason for the leave.
A couple of weeks prior, on Monday, April 13, Micah Perkins, a former GRCC Board of Trustees member, spoke out on Mitchell’s behalf during a GRPS Board of Trustees meeting. Perkins also shared his thoughts about the situation in an interview with WoodTV.
“She’s a brave woman, and a brave woman can sound different than a confident man,” Perkins said. “Unfortunately, in the culture that we have here, I’m afraid a lot of that is affecting what’s going on here.”
It was announced at GRCC’s Board of Trustees meeting on Monday, May 4, that Perkins resigned, effective April 19, due to scheduling conflicts.
In a statement written on Monday, April 27, Leadriane Roby, Superintendent of GRPS, confirmed Mitchell’s continued employment at GRPS and wrote: “The district has followed established processes as concerns were raised. The district respects the board’s decision to continue the employment of Dr. Lovelady Mitchell…”
The following Tuesday, April 28, in a statement released by her attorney, Mitchell reiterated her passion to work with children in the education system.
“My focus has not shifted. It remains exactly where it always has been– on the scholars and professionals who deserve nothing less than my very best,” Mitchell stated. “I stand ready to return to my work and continue contributing to this district and this community.”
The Collegiate reached out to Mitchell for comment but did not receive a response.
