Pittsburgh schools administrator charged with strangulation resigns from job
PITTSBURGH —
The Chief of Staff for the Pittsburgh Public Schools’ superintendent has resigned following assault allegations.
According to a criminal complaint obtained by Pittsburgh’s Action News 4, police were called to a South Side home back in April following reports of a strangulation.
A woman accused Pittsburgh Public Schools’ Chief of Staff Lamar Blackwell of grabbing and choking her during an argument.
Officials later charged Blackwell with strangulation and simple assault. He will be held in court for a preliminary hearing in September.
Blackwell submitted his resignation on Thursday. According to the district, the now-former administrator cited the “ongoing public attention surrounding a pending personal legal matter” as the reason for his departure.
The district shared the letter of resignation. You can read the letter below:
“Serving this district has been one of the greatest professional honors of my career. I remain deeply proud of the work we have accomplished together to strengthen organizational effectiveness, advance strategic priorities, and better serve our students, families, and staff.
Unfortunately, the continued public attention surrounding the pending legal matter involving me has created a level of distraction that has significantly impacted my ability to effectively carry out the responsibilities of my position. While I remain confident that this matter would ultimately be resolved, the ongoing media coverage and resulting public scrutiny have increasingly shifted attention away from the important work of the District. I recognize the strain this situation has placed on the administration and the Board, and I believe stepping aside is the most responsible course of action in the best interests of the District.”
Superintendent Dr. Wayne N. Walters released the following statement:
“We respect Mr. Blackwell’s decision to resign and his desire to act in the best interests of the District,” said Dr. Walters. “Our focus remains on continuing the important work of serving our students and school communities.”
Blackwell was appointed as chief of staff at PPS in May 2024, according to the district’s website.
Following the April incident, Pittsburgh’s Action News 4 reached out to Pittsburgh Public Schools, who said the following in an emailed statement Tuesday:
“The District is aware of a personal legal matter involving Mr. Blackwell. The matter remains before the court, and Mr. Blackwell is complying with the court-established process. He continues to serve in his role while the legal process moves forward. Out of respect for the judicial process and the privacy of those involved, the District will not comment further.”
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