SSD Important Announcement - Staff

Effective immediately, SSD Superintendent Dr. Elizabeth Keenan has been placed on an administrative leave of absence due to an internal personnel matter. Dr. Michael Maclin, the District’s current Executive Director of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Accessibility, has agreed to serve as acting superintendent in the interim.

Dr. Maclin began his career with Special School District in 2020, where he shepherded the District toward developing and implementing a multi-year, systemic approach to addressing DEIA issues at both the student and staff levels. Dr. Maclin is an award-winning leader offering over 20 years of experience and a strong performance record in driving results-oriented DEIA outcomes, and is considered one of the region's most efficient and effective DEIA specialists. Before SSD, Dr. Maclin served as a Coordinator and Principal for Parkway Schools and as a Principal with the School District of University City. In these roles, he was honored with several awards, such as the New Principal of the Year Award and Educator of the Year Award. Dr. Maclin's has earned many certifications, including the racial equity facilitator certificate from Harvard University. CIO Views, a globally recognized magazine, named Dr. Maclin one of the 10 Most Successful (DEI) Leaders to Watch in 2023, and he was honored with the invitation to deliver a TEDx talk in 2023.

Dr. Maclin holds a doctorate in leadership in teaching and learning, a master's degree in educational administration, a master's degree in guidance and counseling, and a bachelor's degree in communications from Missouri Baptist University. He currently leads all doctoral equity work for Missouri Baptist University.

Special School District has full faith and confidence in Dr. Maclin’s ability to lead the District during this time to ensure a smooth transition and no disruption to District operations.

District employees should direct any media or press inquiries to Jennifer Henry, Executive Director of Communications. Employees should refrain from gossip or speculation regarding a confidential personnel matter such as this one. Such behavior detracts from one’s job duties and from the care and education of students, and should thus be avoided. Further, only the Board or its specific designees are authorized to speak publicly regarding this matter on behalf of the District.

Any student or parent inquiries or concerns regarding this announcement should be directed to Jennifer Henry, Executive Director of Communications.

Employees are reminded of current District policies regarding anti-retaliation. Any employee who believes they are experiencing any form of retaliation should refer to Policy AC and contact Tracey Barroso in the Office of Employee Success and Engagement to discuss any concerns.

Further messaging will follow if and when there are any additional material developments impacting the District’s superintendent position.