Royal Oak Plans Super Send-Off For Lewis-Lakin

ROYAL OAK, MI — When one door closes, another opens. At least that’s the case for Royal Oak Schools Superintendent Shawn Lewis-Lakin. He’s retiring from the district next month and moving on to become a pastor Birmingham First United Methodist Church.

Royal Oak Schools are not letting him leave without a celebration, however. The district is inviting residents, employees and the community in general, to a “retirement open house” on June 6 from 5-7 p.m. The event will be held at the district’s administration office board room on 800 DeVillen Avenue.

“Please join us as we congratulate Superintendent Lewis-Lakin and thank him for his hard work, dedication and service on behalf of Royal Oak Schools, students and families,” said Deb Anderson, president of the Board of Education, in a statement.

Lewis-Lakin, 57, has served as superintendent for six years. He announced his retirement in January. Lewis-Lakin is no stranger to the church, having worked as a pastor for nine years before returning to education.

“Royal Oak is an incredible community,” Lewis told the Daily Tribune earlier this year. “Royal Oak residents understand the importance of a strong ... community public school system to the overall vitality of our city. Regardless of whether they have children attending schools, Royal Oak citizens support Royal Oak Schools.”

Mary Beth Fitzpatrick will become Royal Oak’s new superintendent. She comes to the district from Berkley, where she served as an assistant superintendent.

Photo courtesy of the Royal Oak Schools