Beloit board accepts superintendent Willie Garrison II’s resignation; waives annual evaluation

The School District of Beloit Board of Education voted Oct. 7 to accept the resignation of Superintendent Willie Garrison II effective Dec. 31, 2025.

The motion to accept the resignation was made by Brian Nichols and seconded by Tom Hankins; the board reported a final tally of four yes and two no votes in favor of accepting the resignation. The board also voted unanimously to waive completion of the superintendent’s annual evaluation on the grounds that it was unnecessary in light of the resignation.

In a joint statement read by board staff, Dr. Garrison said, “It has been an honor to serve as superintendent of the School District of Beloit. I am proud of what we have accomplished together over the past three years, particularly the achievements of our students.” Board President Tia Johnson thanked Dr. Garrison for his service and said the board would begin a search for his successor.

Procedure and next steps: The board convened in closed session earlier in the meeting under Wisconsin statutes for personnel and legal matters and reconvened in public to take action. Board leadership said the district will initiate a superintendent search and ensure a transition plan before Dec. 31.

Why it matters: The superintendent leads districtwide instruction, budgeting and operations; members of the public who addressed the meeting earlier had also raised concerns about personnel transparency and budget decisions. The board’s action sets a timetable for leadership transition and related administrative decisions required before the end of the calendar year.