Pekin Superintendent Derek Philips resigns

PACKWOOD – Pekin Superintendent Derek Philips has resigned his post effective immediately, and will be on paid administrative leave now through the end of June.

When reached for comment, Philips told The Union that he had been advised by his attorney not to speak to the media.

The Pekin Community School District Board of Directors accepted Philips’ resignation at its meeting on Monday, March 25.

In a message posted to the school district’s Facebook page Tuesday, Philips stated, “I want to thank the many staff, families, students, and community members who have supported me in my two years at Pekin. I have met some of the most amazing people here that I will greatly miss. My family and I look forward to the next chapter. I am committed to making the transition as smooth as possible.”

In that same post, the school board thanked Philips for his service and many contributions to the district, and wished him well in his future endeavors.

In a follow-up message, the school board stated that, during the interim period while the district is without a superintendent, Great Prairie Area Education Agency will provide short-term superintendent services to Pekin.

“Our team is committed to supporting the entire district during this transition period until the Board can determine the best next steps towards a long term plan for the district superintendency,” read the statement from the school board. “GPAEA is here to ensure stability and leadership for Pekin board, administration, staff, students, and greater school community.”

Philips is in his second year as Pekin’s superintendent. In December of 2022, after working for the district for half a year, the school board agreed to a three-year deal with Philips to extend his contract through June 2026.

Philips grew up outside Keosauqua, and attended Van Buren County Schools, graduating in 2003. After college, his first full-time job was in the Fairfield Community School District, where he taught fifth grade from 2009-2014.

Call Andy Hallman at 641-575-0135 or email him at andy.hallman@southeastiowaunion.com

  Buy Photo