Phillips Steps Down as Oneida Director of Schools
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Phillips Steps Down as Oneida Director of Schools
Posey-Chitwood named Interim Director
By Shane Gilreath
SCN Contributing Editor
[email protected]
Nearly two weeks after a rambunctious school board meeting that drew significant public attention, longtime Oneida Director of Schools Dr. Jeanny Phillips has elected to step down from the district’s top job after ten years of service. By a unanimous 5-0 vote during a special called meeting last Monday, the Oneida Board approved Phillips’ request to shift her role from the district directorship to principal of the district’s newly established virtual academy.
Dr. Jeanny Phillips
“I am deeply grateful for the honor and privilege of serving as Director of Schools for the Oneida Special School District,” Phillips told SCN, as she reflected on her decade-long tenure.
“These years have been among the most rewarding of my career,” she said. “I want to sincerely thank the Oneida Special School District central office and administrative staff for placing their trust in me, and for their steadfast support throughout my tenure. I am also profoundly thankful to our dedicated teachers, staff, and academic teams, whose daily commitment to our students has been truly inspiring.”
In speaking with SCN, Phillips reserved special praise for the students and families she has served over the years, calling them the heart of everything the district does.
“It has been a joy to watch you learn, grow, and achieve, and I will always carry the memories of your successes with me,” Phillips said, speaking directly to the families who make up the district. “The Oneida community has shown incredible support for our schools, and I am thankful for the strong partnerships we’ve built together.”
While Phillips transitions to a new role leading the district’s virtual academy, the board selected a familiar face to replace her. Kelly Posey-Chitwood, a former principal at Oneida Middle School and the district’s
Kelly Posey-Chitwood
current Director of Coordinated School Health and Safety, will assume duties as Interim Director of Schools.
“I am honored by the Board’s confidence and grateful for the opportunity to serve as Interim Director of Schools,” Posey-Chitwood told SCN.
Posey-Chitwood brings more than two decades of experience in education, having served in a variety of leadership and instructional roles.
“I believe deeply in the potential of our students, the commitment of our employees, and the support of our families and community,” she said.
In remarks to SCN, Posey-Chitwood emphasized the importance of collaboration and maintaining a student-centered focus as the district moves forward.
“Our greatest strength is our people,” she told SCN. “By working together and keeping students at the center of every decision, we can continue to build on Oneida’s tradition of excellence and create even greater opportunities for those we serve.”
