Superintendent Cherie Vannatter accepts position at WISD

Superintendent Cherie Vannatter

Last week, amidst the chaotic hustle and excitement of the end of the school year, teachers and staff of Manchester Community Schools learned of another change taking place in the district. They, along with the school board, were informed that Superintendent Cherie Vannatter will resign and beginning July 17th, take over the position of Assistant Superintendent, Achievement and Student Services for Washtenaw Intermediate School District.

Vannatter, who has served as Manchester Schools’ superintendent since 2011, stated, “I have enjoyed working with the staff, students, and families in Manchester. This close-knit community embraced and trusted me with the education of their children, and I will cherish the experience.” She continued, “I look forward to bringing voice and influence on the county and state level for the benefit of all students in Washtenaw County.”

This change comes on top of the school board’s recent decision to consolidate school buildings next year, and to house K-12 students in two buildings instead of three. Although Vannatter has been heading up the transition team overseeing the building consolidation, she is confident her resignation will not impact the process. Vanatter stated, “The building consolidation transition plan was created with a team of parents, teachers, administrators and students. My leaving the district should have no impact on the plan continuation. The board, current administrators and whomever replaces me will ensure the plan is carried out.” School board president Chris Fegan echoed this sentiment, stating, “We are hopeful that everything will continue to be a smooth transition for the students.”

The school board will officially accept Vannatter’s resignation tonight, Monday, June 19 at the regularly scheduled board meeting at 7 pm, which will follow the budget hearing at 6. Fegan stated, “The board will also discuss procedures for filling the position at the board meeting.”

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by Sara Swanson

Sara Swanson is an editor, writer and founder of the Manchester Mirror.