School Board announces new Superintendent for Benton Harbor Area Schools

BENTON HARBOR, Mich. -- It's official, Benton Harbor Area Schools finally has a new superintendent.

Dr. Simone Griffin, a former Regional Director at Learnwell Educational Services in Chicago.

Dr. Griffin was among the three finalists who advanced to the second round of interviews following a national search.

Griffin brings more than 15 years of experience in education, with a background in district-level administration, as well as teaching and principal leadership.

Benton Harbor School Board President Deshauna Robinson describes how the board finally arrived at its selection.

"So, we really had to focus in on their previous experience, the community feedback that we receive and just the skill sets that they bring to Benton Harbor area schools as it relates to our strategic plan, our mission, vision and goals."

Interim Superintendent Dr. Christopher Bernick will continue in that role until Dr. Griffin's superintendent contract is finalized.

After that, the board will host a formal ceremony to welcome the new leadership for Benton Harbor Area Schools.