MONROE — The School District of Monroe Board of Education on Jan. 27 voted to appoint one of its own administrators — Joe Monroe — as its interim superintendent for the remainder of the 2024-25 school year; and for the entire 2025-26 school year.
Monroe was named to the role following the recent resignation of Superintendent Rodney Figueroa.
Monroe has served the district for the past 27 years, most recently as director of pupil services, where he oversaw critical programs including special education services, social-emotional learning initiatives, school-based mental health programs, intervention support, nursing services; and alternative learning options.
“We are confident in Mr. Monroe’s ability to lead our district through this transition,” said Rich Deprez, the board’s president, in a statement. “His extensive experience, deep understanding of our school community, and commitment to excellence make him the ideal choice to guide our district during this period.”
Monroe has been acting superintendent since Jan. 13, when the board accepted Figueroa’s resignation.
“I am truly grateful for the trust placed in me and am deeply committed to serving our students, families, staff, and community during this critical time,” said Monroe, in the statement. “I recognize that there is much work to be done, both within our schools and across our community, and we will face some difficult decisions moving forward…”
Deprez at the Jan. 27 meeting said the board found itself in the “unenviable” position of trying to find a leader during looming budget cuts and the need to win a future referendum. On the plus side, a gleaming new high school is being built in the district.
The board agreed to search for a permanent superintendent in the fall of 2025, with plans to appoint a superintendent who would begin work on July 1, 2026. But Monroe told the board he was not ruling out making a huge difference in the district’s future, and perhaps may seek to apply be the district’s permanent superintendent.
“I’ve dedicated my entire career to this district and the community,” Monroe said, Monday. “I’m proud to be a part of this team.”