City Schools of Decatur Superintendent Gyimah Whitaker leaving

Share Add Us On Google Add as a preferred source on Google Editor’s note: The video in this story is from previous reporting. ATLANTA, Ga. (Decaturish) — After three years, City Schools of Decatur Superintendent Gyimah Whitaker is leaving her post. Whitaker, hired in 2023, made the surprise announcement during a Nov. 10 City Schools of Decatur Board of Education meeting. It’s unclear if she is resigning or if the board is ending her contract. The board voted to approve a contract modification and resolution agreement with the superintendent just before the superintendent’s report. The motion was approved unanimously. The announcement follows the conclusion of an investigation into Whitaker’s use of a podcast studio owned by her husband. The investigation found insufficient evidence of wrongdoing . She was also in charge of the district’s pursuit of a controversial Early Childhood Learning Center project. The district ultimately backed away from that project while exploring alternatives. “For over two decades, I have committed to improving access and exceptional education and creating sustainable outcomes for every student,” she said in her announcement. “My core values as a leader, equity, leadership and engagement have guided my professional journey and will continue to do so as I transition to enhancing student outcomes nationally. City Schools of Decatur is a special place defined by a diverse community with shared pride in our schools.” Deputy Superintendent Karen Newton-Scott, who has worked for City Schools of Decatur for 30 years in different roles, will serve as interim superintendent for 18 months while the board searches for Whitaker’s replacement. “Dr. Whitaker has done everything this board has asked of her when we hired her,” Board Chair Carmen Sulton said. “We recognize and appreciate the time, energy, and effort Dr. Whitaker has devoted to our district and the important role she has played in serving our students, staff, and families. We wish Dr. Whitaker the very best in the next chapter of her life and her professional career.” Copyright 2026 WANF. All rights reserved.