Pittsburgh Public School's Chief of Staff resigns

Pittsburgh Public Schools Chief of Staff Lamar Blackwell has resigned.

A statement from the district says Blackwell submitted his resignation today due to "ongoing media coverage and . . . public scrutiny" of assault and strangulation charges against him.

In his letter of resignation, Blackwell says "stepping aside is in the best interests of the District."

In April, he was accused of grabbing his girlfriend by the wrist and choking her and when officers spoke to the woman, they said she had redness on the left side of her neck.

Blackwell's preliminary hearing is scheduled for September10.

Blackwell’s full statement:

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.

PPS Superintendent Dr. Wayne 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.”