Multiple Senior Officials Put on Paid Leave

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Grand Rapids Public Schools is placing two senior leaders on administrative leave as the district investigates personnel matters affecting its operations.

According to a note to staff dated Friday, March 27, 2026, GRPS Superintendent Leadriane Roby placed Chief Area Instructional Leader Bridget Cheney on paid administrative leave through the remainder of the school year.

Cheney, who oversaw the Southeast Quadrant, was responsible for directing instructional quality, implementing strategic plans and supervising school principals within that geographic area.

"The district is committed to transparency, which is why we are sharing this information promptly with our staff," Roby said in a statement. "Because this is a personnel matter, the district cannot comment further on the circumstances surrounding the leave."

The district confirmed that Maleika Joubert Brown will oversee the schools and programs that were under Cheney's supervision for the rest of the academic year. The last day of school for GRPS is scheduled for June 3.

This is not the first senior administrator the district has placed on leave. Earlier this month, Dr. Brandy Lovelady Mitchell, the deputy superintendent for Grand Rapids Public Schools, was also put on administrative leave.

Roby did not specify the circumstances or reasons for either placement on leave, citing personnel privacy. However, the timing of both actions suggests the district is addressing significant internal issues that may require external investigation or review.

Impact on District Operations

The placement of Cheney on leave affects instructional oversight across multiple schools in the Southeast Quadrant of the district. Joubert Brown, who is stepping in to provide stable guidance, will maintain continuity in the district's strategic implementation and school supervision.

The district has not announced any changes to its reporting structure or any formal investigation timeline. Staff members were informed of the leave status through internal communication channels.

Community Questions

Parents and community members have expressed concern about the district's decision to remove two senior leaders from their positions simultaneously. Questions remain about what led to these placements and what steps the district plans to take moving forward.

The district's commitment to transparency is evident in its decision to share this information publicly, though specific details remain confidential pending the outcome of internal proceedings.

What's Next

As the school year continues toward its June 3 conclusion, the district will determine the status of both administrators. The placement of Cheney and Lovelady Mitchell on leave represents a significant moment for GRPS, which serves thousands of students across Kent County.

The district has not announced any immediate changes to its leadership structure beyond the interim arrangements. Additional updates are expected as the investigation or review process unfolds.