Melissa Baker is resigning as superintendent of South Lyon Community Schools, the county’s seventh largest school district.
Baker, who has served as superintendent since 2015, recently sent a letter to parents advising that she would be leaving the district “to pursue a new leadership opportunity when I will continue to support our children, public education, and the great educators in Michigan.”
Ben Kirby, assistant superintendent for administrative services, would not confirm Baker’s new job or her final day with the district, but added “it’s most likely in December or January.” He said the board of education will meet in the next two to four weeks to discuss the next steps in finding a replacement for Baker.
Baker has worked in the district since 1992 having served as a guest teacher, principal, and assistant superintendent. The school district is comprised of 8,300 students and 12 schools.
Here’s the text from Baker’s letter:
Good Evening,
This has been an amazing start to the school year and I want to thank our entire school community for the commitment to our students, families, and our district. This is a challenging communication for me to share, as South Lyon Community Schools has not only been my place of work, but my passion, commitment, and our family home for over 26 years.
Starting in South Lyon in 1992, I have seen our community not only grow, but rise to the challenges of continued economic inequities, and still become a top performing district in the County and State. South Lyon Community Schools is known for its outstanding students, educators, staff, community members, board members, and facilities. I have no doubt that this exemplar reputation will continue well into the future.
I will be leaving the district this winter to pursue a new leadership opportunity where I will continue to support our children, public education, and the great work of educators in Michigan. Please know that I will do everything possible to support South Lyon Community Schools during this time of transition. I have great confidence in our Board of Education, leadership team, and staff to develop a plan for the astounding future of SLCS.
I am grateful to our school community for the years of support, guidance, mentoring, and the continued commitment to South Lyon Community Schools!
Yours for kids always,
Melissa Baker
