Missouri Commissioner of Education Chris L. Nicastro expressed concern today that John Covington has resigned as superintendent of the Kansas City School District. He tendered his resignation to the district's school board during executive session last night.

"John Covington has been a strong and effective leader at a time when Kansas City and its schools needed him most," Nicastro said. "We have been encouraged by their progress.

With Covingtons departure, Nicastro questions the stability of the districts leadership and whether the current plan for improvement could be in jeopardy. The Department has been working closely with the district to help boost student achievement and eventually regain full accreditation.

We will recommend whatever action is necessary to represent the best interests of the education of the districts children, Nicastro said. Unfortunately, with Dr. Covington's departure, the implementation of the current plan for improvement is now at risk.

The department will be reviewing the situation carefully and talking with district officials in the next several days to determine the appropriate course of action.

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