Mallory Miller. Photo by William Lange

Administrative changes plaguing Maricopa Wells Middle School continue as district officials confirmed Friday that Assistant Principal Mallory Miller resigned in early October.

According to school documents, Miller’s resignation was effective Oct. 3.

The departure comes after a string of transitions between MWMS and Maricopa High School administrators, most of which have gone largely unexplained by the district.

Currently, acting principal at MWMS is Thad Miller, no relation. Thad Miller is filling in for Rick Abel, who is acting principal at MHS while Principal Renita Myers is on leave.

Tom Beckett, human resources director for the Maricopa Unified School District, said MUSD is recruiting candidates from within and outside the district to fill Mallory Miller’s former position at MWMS.

“​We have middle school staff members assisting Mr. (Thad) Miller with administrative tasks and we are very thankful for the cooperation that group of professionals has provided during this transition,” Beckett said.

It is unclear how long Abel will assume Myers’ role at the high school.

Mallory Miller and Myers were previously administrators at Desert Wind Middle School and worked together again at MHS at the beginning of the school year before the district moved Mallory Miller to MWMS.

Miller’s was not the only staff resignation to come suddenly. Longtime MHS Librarian Robin Shoup resigned on Oct. 17.

“We have interviewed for a librarian, and we are very close to finalizing a placement,” Beckett said.

MUSD Transportation Director Fred Laguna is expected to retire in December.

“Mr. Laguna is retiring after a long and successful career in school transportation,” Beckett said. “He oversaw and helped lead the district through a number of great projects during his time with us.”

The personnel changes are on the MUSD Governing Board agenda for its Oct. 25 meeting.