Hazel Park Board appoints Doctor Katherine Cost as interim superintendent amid union concerns

In a tense and pivotal meeting on February 3, 2025, the Hazel Park School District Board of Education faced significant scrutiny as they deliberated the appointment of Dr. Katherine Cost as interim superintendent. The atmosphere was charged with concern from various stakeholders, particularly the Hazel Park Education Association (HPEA), which voiced serious reservations about the decision.

Monica Gregory, president of the HPEA, opened the public comments by expressing the association's unanimous disapproval of the board's process in selecting Dr. Cost. She highlighted the lack of collaboration with employee unions, which had submitted a joint statement requesting involvement in the selection process. Gregory raised alarms about Dr. Cost's past tenure at Wyandotte Public Schools, citing allegations of financial mismanagement and a lack of cooperation with unions. She urged the board to reconsider their choice, emphasizing the potential risks of appointing someone with a controversial background during a critical time for the district.

The meeting also featured concerns from parents regarding the district's new PowerSchool system, which has reportedly caused discrepancies in student GPAs and class rankings. Sue Nuffield, a parent of a senior, implored the board to investigate these issues, stressing the importance of accurate records for scholarship applications.

As the board moved to vote on Dr. Cost's appointment, members expressed mixed feelings. Some acknowledged her qualifications and the urgency of filling the superintendent role, while others echoed the concerns raised by the unions and community members. The discussion revealed a deep divide among board members about the appropriateness of the appointment and the transparency of the selection process.

Ultimately, the board voted 4-3 in favor of appointing Dr. Cost, despite the ongoing concerns about her past and the process that led to her selection. The decision underscores the challenges facing the Hazel Park School District as it navigates leadership transitions and strives to maintain trust within the community. As the board moves forward, the implications of this appointment will likely resonate throughout the district, impacting students, staff, and parents alike.