Dr. Christopher Spence Granted Leave of Absence Following Utica Board of Education Special Meeting
By Dawn Laguerre
UTICA, N.Y. — The Utica City School District Board of Education voted Wednesday evening to grant Superintendent Dr. Christopher Spence a leave of absence following a special meeting held at the district’s Administration Building at Kernan Elementary School.
The Board entered into executive session before returning to public session, where members voted on a resolution accepting Dr. Spence’s leave of absence, effective immediately. The leave is scheduled to continue through July 31, 2026.
As part of the action taken by the Board, Dr. Kathleen Davis was appointed to serve as Acting Superintendent during Dr. Spence’s absence. Dr. Davis has previously served in a superintendent role for the district and will now help guide the district through the end of the school year and summer transition period.
According to reports from the meeting, the resolution passed by a 6-0 vote, with Board member Donald Dawes abstaining. Dawes reportedly stated during the meeting that he did not agree with “the way this was all handled.”
No public reason was given for Dr. Spence’s leave of absence.
More than 30 community members and supporters of Dr. Christopher Spence attended the special meeting, reflecting ongoing public interest in the leadership and future direction of the Utica City School District. Many in the community have followed Dr. Spence’s tenure closely, particularly around issues of academic progress, district stability, student support, and transparency.
Dr. Davis addressed families in a message posted by the district, saying her focus will remain on students and learning as the school year comes to a close. She emphasized the importance of making the end of the year strong for every student and ensuring that supports remain in place as children prepare for the 2026–2027 school year.
The leave of absence comes at a significant moment for the Utica City School District, as families, students, staff, and community stakeholders continue to look for stability and clear communication from district leadership.
