As parents, educators, students, and members of the school community, we urge you to consider Alycia Meriweather for the position of DPSCD Superintendent.

It is our understanding that Alycia was not considered as a candidate because she has fewer than three years of previous experience as a Superintendent. However, since she was appointed in March 2016 as Interim Superintendent, she has focused on reducing chronic absenteeism, increasing student achievement, and leading Detroit schools to success.

Alycia is a lifelong Detroiter who understands the needs of our community and wields the respect of students and teachers alike. We need her kind of leadership and open communication in order for our schools to continue to improve and to give our children the best possible education.

As the new DPSCD emerges, continuity of leadership and consistency will be critical to the district’s success, and to the education of each individual child. Alycia has shown an ability to manage the unique challenges of education in Detroit, to invite innovation into our schools, to deliver results, and to put the best interests of our children first. She deserves, at least, a fair chance and the Board’s consideration. Please reevaluate the process for selecting final candidates and consider Alycia Meriweather for the position of Superintendent of DPSCD.

We, the undersigned, strongly urge you to act in the best interest of our children, and in doing so, to give Alycia a fair chance to continue to lead our schools in her capacity as Superintendent.