Metro Atlanta superintendent to depart at end of year

After more than three years of service, the superintendent of the City Schools of Decatur is leaving her post effective Dec. 31.

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Gyimah Whitaker announced her departure at the Nov. 10 Board of Education meeting, saying she plans to “move forward with new opportunities.”

The school district touted what it termed the “record-setting academic achievement” during her tenure, saying student achievement improved and gaps narrowed. The school district also said the district four-year graduation rate improved under Whitaker’s tenure.

Decatur City Schools said the district received its highest state accountability score in history while she was superintendent.

Whitaker has led the school district since July 2023.

Deputy Superintendent Karen Newton-Scott will serve as interim superintendent starting Jan. 1, 2027 as the school board searches for the next superintendent.

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In May, Channel 2 Action News reported the school board was weighing her fate after concerns over Whitaker recording her podcast in the same studio her husband, a controversial podcaster, owns and uses.

In the statement provided by City Schools of Decatur, Whitaker said the following about her departure:

“Serving the students and families of the City of Decatur alongside our high-quality educators has been one of the great privileges of my career. I am proud of what our administration and this community have achieved together, raising expectations, expanding opportunities for students, and securing real progress in academic achievement at every level.

“Our work together shows what is possible when student success remains the unwavering focus. I thank the Board of Education for entrusting me with the opportunity to lead in this remarkable community. As I move forward with new opportunities, I am confident that the foundation we have built will serve Decatur students for years to come.”

Gmiyah Whitaker, superintendent, the City Schools of Decatur

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