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Royal Oak, Mich. – Royal Oak Schools: After nearly four decades of dedicated commitment to educational excellence, Mary Beth Fitzpatrick, Superintendent of Royal Oak Schools, has announced her retirement, effective July 31, 2025. The Board of Education accepted her letter during a March 13, 2025, board meeting.
Fitzpatrick began her career as a special education teacher, working with students with learning disabilities and emotional impairments, before expanding into instructional support and staff development. Her administrative journey includes serving as an assistant principal and principal at the elementary and high school levels, where she focused on curriculum enhancement, staff supervision, and student engagement. As Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum, Technology, Assessment, and Grants for Berkley Schools, she played a pivotal role in shaping district-wide educational initiatives, overseeing curriculum development, implementing technology integration, and securing strategic funding. Her leadership has consistently been marked by collaboration, innovation, and a dedication to fostering equitable student learning opportunities.
“From the start of my career in 1986, I have passionately pursued teaching and learning,” Fitzpatrick said. “Each role has allowed me to work with outstanding educators in two amazing communities.”
During her tenure as Superintendent at Royal Oak Schools, Mary Beth Fitzpatrick has achieved several key milestones that have had a lasting impact on the district:
- Successfully passed the 2017 bond for $60 million, providing critical funding for facility improvements, technology enhancements, and educational resources.
- Championed community-driven events, fostering stronger relationships between schools, families, and local organizations to enhance student experiences.
- Recruited and hired many district leaders and administrators, shaping a strong leadership team committed to student success.
- Led the long-range planning process, resulting in a strategic plan that continues to guide the district’s vision and priorities.
- Mentored aspiring administrators, supporting their growth and guiding several individuals into central office positions, strengthening leadership pipelines within the district.
Mary Beth Fitzpatrick took great pride in securing key grants that directly benefited Royal Oak Schools and its students. TheOakland County Schools Mental Health Grant Program provided valuable resources to support district initiatives, enhancing programs that promote student well-being and educational opportunities. As a Safe Routes to Schoolmini-grant district awardee, she recently helped secure funding to improve student safety and encourage walking and biking to school through infrastructure improvements and community engagement efforts. These grants not only strengthened district programs but also reinforced the district’s commitment to student health, safety, and overall success.
“There have been many successes, and we have faced various challenges; the key to both has been our ability to work together and support one another,” Fitzpatrick added.
Fitzpatrick’s dedication to the Royal Oak Schools community and her passion for education for all students in Michigan are evident through her active leadership roles in both local and statewide organizations. As a Royal Oak Rotary Club Board Member and former president, she has been deeply involved in service projects that benefit students and families. Her commitment extends to the South Oakland YMCA Board, where she has supported programs that promote youth development and wellness. Additionally, she has contributed to education policy and advocacy through her role on the Royal Oak Chamber of Commerce Legislative Subcommittee and as Oakland County Superintendent’s Association Curriculum Subcommittee Chair, helping to shape academic initiatives at the county level. Her involvement as a Metropolitan Detroit Bureau of School Studies, Inc. Board Member further reflects her dedication to advancing best practices in education across Michigan schools. Through these roles, she has fostered strong partnerships, championed student success, and worked to ensure equitable educational opportunities for all learners.
“Leading in Royal Oak has provided a fantastic journey, and I have thoroughly enjoyed every minute. I am thankful for such a supportive community and the chance to serve our families, staff, and, most importantly, our students,” Fitzpatrick said.
Mary Beth Fitzpatrick announced her retirement decision in a letter to Royal Oak Schools staff and the Board of Education on Thursday, March 13, 2025. Her dedication to strategic planning, community engagement, and leadership development has helped shape a thriving, future-focused district in Royal Oak.
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