MPS superintendent stepping down

Milwaukee Public Schools Superintendent Gregory Thornton is leaving his position. Thornton held the job since 2010, when he replaced former superintendent William Andrekopoulos.

Thornton is expected to become the chief executive officer of Baltimore City Public Schools. Thornton has not yet announced the move but Vliet Street insiders confirm his departure.

OnMilwaukee.com’s Bobby Tanzilo reported yesterday that rumors of Thornton’s departure were swirling.

During his career, Thornton – who holds a Bachelor of Science degree in elementary education from Temple University and a Master of Arts degree from Salisbury State University – served as superintendent of Chester Upland School District in Pennsylvania and was the Chief Academic Officer of The School District of Philadelphia.

It is unclear whether or not Thornton will leave immediately or at the end of the current school year. The Board of Milwaukee School Directors will likely select an interim superintendent while conducting a search for Thornton’s replacement.