Detroit School Board Launches Search After Peterson-Mayberry Steps Down for County Role

July 7, 2025

Angelique Peterson-Mayberry has resigned from Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) board after eight years to become Wayne County Commissioner for District 5, filling the vacancy left by the late Irma Clark-Coleman. Peterson-Mayberry played a crucial role in reestablishing local control of Detroit's public schools since 2017, working alongside Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti to rebuild community trust and stabilize district finances. DPSCD has now opened applications for her board seat replacement, with a special meeting scheduled for July 7 to begin the appointment process.

Who is affected

Detroit Public Schools Community District (DPSCD) students, families, and staff
Detroit residents eligible to apply for the vacant board seat
Wayne County District 5 constituents
DPSCD Board of Education members
The more than 50,000 students and their families served by the district

What action is being taken

DPSCD has opened applications to fill Peterson-Mayberry's vacant board seat
The board is accepting applications from eligible Detroit residents
A special board meeting is scheduled for July 7 at 5 p.m. to begin the formal appointment process
The board is reviewing applications that include letters of intent, resumes, and proof of Detroit residency
Peterson-Mayberry was sworn in as Wayne County Commissioner on July 2, 2025

Why it matters

Peterson-Mayberry was instrumental in reestablishing local control of Detroit schools after years of state emergency management
The board position is critical for addressing persistent challenges including chronic absenteeism, teacher recruitment, building repairs, and achievement gaps
The selection process represents DPSCD's commitment to transparent governance and community voice
The new board member will influence decisions affecting neighborhood schools, transportation, teacher contracts, and pandemic funding allocation
The appointment continues the district's recovery from pandemic disruptions while navigating potential state-level policy changes

What's next

The district will announce the application deadline soon
The board will review candidates, conduct interviews, and vote to appoint someone to complete Peterson-Mayberry's term through 2026
A special meeting on July 7 will begin formal conversations about the appointment process

Read full article from source: Michigan Chronicle