Oxford Community Schools Appoints Tonya Milligan as New Superintendent Amid Ongoing Community Challenges

Oxford Community Schools Selects New Superintendent

Oxford, Michigan – The Oxford Community School board has officially chosen its next superintendent, nearly a month after revealing three finalists for the position. The board convened for a special meeting on Tuesday evening at Oxford Middle School to finalize its decision.

Who and What

The seven-member board unanimously voted to appoint Tonya Milligan, currently the executive director of K-12 teaching and learning at Columbus City Schools in Columbus, Ohio, to lead the district starting July 1. Board President Erin Reis expressed satisfaction with the selection process, indicating it was educational, exciting, and inclusive.

Why This Matters

Reis remarked on the significance of this decision, stating, “Selecting a superintendent is one of the most important decisions we’ll make as a group for our students, for our families, and for our communities.” Following the vote, Reis stated she would reach out to Milligan and the district’s attorneys to begin discussions regarding her contract, which will be presented to the board and made public for review prior to the start date.

The Candidates

The selection process began in March when the board announced three finalists: Milligan, Cormac Lynn, superintendent of the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw, and David Raleigh, superintendent of LaRue County Schools in Hodgenville, Kentucky. However, Raleigh withdrew from consideration prior to site visits conducted on April 5 and April 12. Board members praised both Milligan and Lynn for their strong qualifications, but some expressed concerns over Lynn’s experience in a private school, comparing it to Milligan’s public school background.

Current Leadership Transition

Milligan is taking over for Vickie Markavitch, the current superintendent who will depart on June 30. Markavitch had been appointed in January 2023 following the unexpected retirement of former superintendent Ken Weaver in November 2022. As Milligan prepares to transition into her new role, she will manage a district that serves approximately 5,700 students in pre-K through 12th grade and employs 855 staff members.

Community Concerns

The road ahead for the Oxford school district is complex, particularly in light of ongoing issues stemming from a tragic 2021 mass shooting that resulted in the deaths of four students and injuries to several others. Parent Mark Gillim has been vocal in his criticisms of the board and the current leadership’s transparency in handling the aftermath of the shooting.

Gillim stated, “In my opinion, you’re still stuck in the first phase of trauma: that is denial,” referring to the lingering effects of the shooting incident. He emphasized that the community seeks accountability from the board and school staff who were involved.

Legal and Emotional Fallout

The district continues to grapple with the ramifications of the shooting, which involved a student firing into the school. The shooter, Ethan Crumbley, has received a life sentence for his actions. Additionally, Crumbley’s parents were convicted of involuntary manslaughter for their negligence leading up to the events. The community remains adamant about demanding transparent communication and effective leadership changes from the school district.

Looking Ahead

As the board prepares to finalize Milligan’s contract and usher in new leadership, the community is hopeful for a fresh perspective amidst the challenges they face. The board’s decision reflects their commitment to finding a path forward for the students, families, and staff within the Oxford Community Schools.