Bessie Harris Appointed to Detroit School Board, Filling Vacancy Left by Sherry Gay-Dagnogo

October 15, 2025

The Detroit Public Schools Community District Board of Education has appointed Bessie Harris, a veteran educator with extensive experience as a teacher and administrator, to fill the vacant seat left by Sherry Gay-Dagnogo's resignation. The appointment occurred on October 14, 2025, with Harris being immediately sworn in after being selected from a pool of 14 applicants from the July 2025 selection process. Harris, a Detroit native with decades of experience in education, will serve until the November 2026 election while contributing to the district's Blueprint 2027 strategic plan.

Who is affected

Students in the Detroit Public Schools Community District
Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) staff and administration
Detroit community members whose schools are governed by the Board
Families of DPSCD students, including Harris's own grandchild at Cass Tech

What action is being taken

The DPSCD Board of Education is appointing Bessie Harris to fill the vacant board seat
Harris is being sworn in immediately following the Board's vote
The Board is continuing implementation of Blueprint 2027, the district's long-term improvement plan
The Board is maintaining leadership continuity by selecting from the previous applicant pool

Why it matters

Harris brings decades of educational experience from multiple roles (Special Education Teacher, Resource Teacher, Assistant Principal, and Principal)
The appointment ensures the Board maintains full seven-member leadership during a year of significant transition
Harris's selection supports the Board's focus on "student success, equity, and community engagement"
The appointment reinforces the district's commitment to experienced, community-centered leadership while implementing Blueprint 2027

What's next

Harris will serve on the Board until the next general election in November 2026, when the seat will be up for a vote
The Board will continue implementing Blueprint 2027, the district's long-term plan to improve academic achievement, modernize facilities, and expand access to quality education

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle