WGN-TV reports that Byrd-Bennett notified the board in writing last week of her decision to resign, effective Monday. (Here is a copy of the letter.)
Byrd-Bennett took a leave of absence in April after it was revealed that federal authorities were looking into what role Byrd-Bennett's played in a contract the district granted to The SUPES Academy, a firm based in Wilmette, Ill., that trains principals and superintendents. Byrd-Bennett had worked as a coach for SUPES prior to joining the Chicago school system.
Byrd-Bennett began working for Chicago Public Schools in 2012 as chief education officer in 2012 and became CEO later that year after the resignation of Jean-Claude Brizard. Byrd-Bennett also has been a school administrator in Detroit, Cleveland and New York City.
