Indianapolis Public Schools Board of School Commissioners by a unanimous vote named Deputy Superintendent for Academics Aleesia Johnson as interim superintendent during a special meeting on Dec. 7. Johnson will replace current Superintendent Lewis D. Ferebee whose last day will be Jan. 4, 2019.
Ferebee is leaving IPS to become chancellor of the District of Columbia Public Schools.
“The Board of School Commissioners has every confidence that Aleesia Johnson is the right fit to lead our district through this interim phase,” Michael O’Connor, president of the IPS Board of School Commissioners said in a press release. “She has a proven track record of effectively supporting educators and is extremely passionate about providing all students high quality school options.”
Johnson, an educator for over 16 years, was recently innovation officer and deputy superintendent for academics. Johnson has helped develop the Innovation Network Schools model and launched the Post-Secondary Readiness team.
“Since assuming the role of deputy superintendent for academics, Aleesia has already made significant strides to make sure our students are prepared now more than ever to succeed,” Ferebee said via press release. “Her attention to detail and drive to make sure every student has the best opportunity and environment to grow, flourish and thrive will continue the district’s upward trajectory.”
Johnson is a native of Evansville and comes from a family of educators. She is the first African-American female to serve as superintendent of IPS.
“It is with great honor and humility that I will serve in this role,” Johnson said in a press release. “As a member of TeamIPS, I’ve worked with numerous people who are passionate about providing all of our students with the high-quality education that they deserve. I carry that same passion with me and will do my very best to serve our students, our families, our staff members, and our community well.”
The search for a permanent replacement for Ferebee will begin in 2019.
