Benton Harbor School Board reacts to pending departure of superintendent

BENTON HARBOR, Mich.--- Benton Harbor Area School Officials are dealing with the fallout from the pending resignation of CEO and Superintendent Dr. Robert Herrera.

Herrera is currently in contract negotiations to take over as superintendent of Farmington schools.

“Once he knew the tide had turned and the law changed and he wasn’t going to get what he wanted, he was ready to leave the district,” said Joseph Taylor, Vice President of the Benton Harbor Area School Board.

Taylor and the rest of the board are now tasked with hiring their fifth superintendent in 10 years.

Taylor said this task will be even more difficult because of the pending proposal to shut down Benton Harbor High School by the fall of 2020.

“You will have people thinking ‘Man, do I even want to apply with the state of Michigan’s proposal hanging over the school system’s head?’” said Taylor.

Taylor said the board will have to get creative when trying to sell the school system to potential candidates.

“If you believe in education, then come in and serve and the board of education will be behind you,” Taylor said.