In a surprise decision, Cincinnati Public Schools (CPS) Superintendent Iranetta Wright has agreed to step down from her position. The announcement was made at the beginning of Wednesday's school board meeting, where the board voted to accept her resignation, rejecting a motion to retain her. Wright's resignation will become effective on May 20.

The decision to resign comes in the face of an anticipated "no confidence" vote from several unions representing teachers and staff at CPS. The Cincinnati Federation of Teachers has raised concerns about a lack of communication, collaboration, and transparency, alleging a violation of the union contract. Julie Sellers, president of the teacher's union, cited a culture of fear and intimidation within Wright's administration, stating that problems remain unsolved and hindering effective work. The union claims that the district's budget process exacerbated these issues and further strained the relationship with the superintendent.

This is not the first time the teachers union has raised alarm bells regarding Wright's leadership. In a letter sent last year, they criticized her for establishing a "culture of intimidation and fear," stating that she embarrasses employees in meetings and micromanages daily tasks. Despite attempts at collaboration, the union claimed to be consistently blocked. While Wright responded in writing with explanations and updates, the concerns persisted.

In addition to the union's concerns, Wright's mid-year job performance evaluation revealed criticism regarding her lack of effective communication and collaboration with the school board, staff, and parents. However, the majority of the school board still expressed confidence in her leadership.

Wright has been leading Cincinnati Public Schools since May 2022, following a six-month search. She previously served as the deputy superintendent in Detroit Public Schools and worked in various administrative positions over 24 years in Jacksonville's Duvall County Schools.

While the details of the "financial package" that Wright has accepted as part of her resignation remain undisclosed, it is clear that the superintendent's decision was influenced by mounting concerns and the looming vote of no confidence from the teachers union. The resignation brings forth questions about the future direction of CPS and the steps the school board will take to address the concerns raised by the union.

As the district prepares for a transition in leadership, the focus now shifts to ensuring the continued delivery of quality education to Cincinnati's students.