Superintendent Robinson Resigns

At a special April 15 meeting the Akron Board of Education voted 4-1 (two Board members abstained) to place Superintendent Michael Robinson on paid leave.

Robinson has been under investigation for charges of creating a hostile work environment, and the report resulting from that independent investigation was reviewed at the special meeting.

Board President, Carla Jackson, stated, "The report indicated that there were multiple credible accounts of bullying, intimidation, and retaliation by Superintendent Robinson against A.P.S. employees, including administrators and former A.P.S. employees."

Executive Director of Elementary Schools (and former Barber principal), Mary Outley, will serve as interim superintendent during Robinson's absence.   She previously served in that capacity prior to the hiring of Robinson.

A final decision on Robinson's employment status is expected to be presented at the next regular Board meeting on April 28.

4/23/25 UPDATE:
The Bricker Graydon law firm, the attorneys for the Akron Board of Education, has presented three options for the Board in dealing with the fate of Superintendent Michael Robinson: termination, resignation, or separation.

4/28/25 UPDATE:
At its April 28 meeting the Board of Education voted 4-3 to accept the resignation of Superintendent Michael Robinson.

As part of the separation agreement, the Board voted to pay Robinson $200,000 to release the school district from any legal liabilities.

At the same meeting, the Board voted 4-3 to officially appoint Acting Superintendent Mary Outley as permanent Superintendent.   She has accepted the appointment.

5/27/25 UPDATE:
At its May 27 meeting the Board of Education officially approved a contract for new Superintendent, Mary Outley.

She will earn an annual salary of $240,000, the same as her predecessor.