On Monday afternoon, word was spreading of the planned departure of former Youngstown City School District CEO and current superintendent Justin Jennings.

21 News first reported that Jennings had shared the news of his upcoming resignation from the district, with his last day being June 30.

While Jennings was expected to submit his official letter to Tiffany Patterson, board president of the Youngstown City School District, Monday night, but instead Patterson submitted a press release confirming the news.

In the press release, Patterson said it was her responsibility to share news with district students, the families and community members.

"I am sure that most of you have already learned via social media, local news or word-of-mouth that Mr. Jennings is stepping down from his position as YCSD Superintendent. While this may be true the rumors floating around, surrounding his departure are not," Patterson's statement read.
 
Patterson said that during his four plus years "he consistently demonstrated his unwavering dedication to the district while  building a foundation and framework for continuous improvement. Out of his steady leadership came a plan of recovery and infrastructure enhancement."
 
While the letter stated that "the Board believes in the instructional coaching model, leadership coaching and resource alignment he has instituted, but during a special Board meeting on June 3, board member Brenda Kimble publicly asked questions on Jennings purchases and contracts during his time as state-appointed CEO of the district, some coming from the reporting of 21 news which found that $10 million in federally-provided funds to help the district recover from the pandemic went to projects failed projects including a city-wide internet for students and a paperless office plan.
 
The press release from Patterson stated, "Many people would like you to believe he did something wrong during his time in the district. That could not be further from the truth."
 
Jennings was hired as district superintendent last July.
 
 
The emailed letter stated that Jennings' reason for his resignation is private and stated that "the board will respect that as we begin to move forward."
 
The role of CEO was created by state to take over the academically challenged district, which at the time was known as "The Youngstown Plan."
 
Jennings took over the role of CEO in 2019 after previous appointed CEO Krish Mohip resigned.