By Benjamin Rothstein

DOVER – Capital School District’s superintendent Vilicia Cade has resigned, according to board of education president Felecia Duggins. Her last day will be July 22.

“I must submit this letter of resignation due to a hostile work environment including interference in the ability to carry out my role as superintendent,” wrote Dr. Cade in her resignation letter, which was obtained by the Daily State News.

“Consequently, this decision was prompted by several hostile actions that were taken to force me out of the district, including conspiracy to defame my character, intent to harm my professional reputation, acts of intimidation, and malicious intent to hinder my contract negotiations.” she continued.

“I have consistently asked for us to work on fostering trust, mutual respect and jointly explore ways to work more intently toward improving communication between the board and superintendent. Subsequently, my request was met with aggressive hostility on the part of some board members, including acts of intimidation and intentional misuse of authority.”

Over the past year, Dr. Cade has said she has been making strides to remedy the district’s behavioral issues, including starting the Trauma and School Connectedness Task Force and starting the district parent summit.

“As I transition, it is my desire that we remain amicable and professional for the duration of my tenure,” she wrote. “I will continue to uphold the highest level of professionalism and work toward setting the district up to be successful. The students, staff and parents deserve the best under the circumstances.”

Dr. Cade also sent out a farewell letter to school district staff that focused on the progress the district has made under her leadership.

Ms. Duggins and Dr. Cade released a third letter to district staff Wednesday evening after the resignation was announced at a board of education meeting.

“With respect and esteem, the Board of Education would like to formally wish Dr. Cade the very best in her future endeavors and we want to publicly thank her for her service to Senator Nation,” said the letter co-signed by Dr. Cade and Ms. Duggins.

“In closing, saying goodbye is never easy so we will choose to say ‘see you around’ as we know our undying collective commitment remains focused on the success of our students, our staff, and our parents with the community,” the letter concluded.

The letters did not include information on what’s next for Dr. Cade.