The details
The board of trustees named Dr. Cory Wilson interim superintendent Jan. 30. A subsequent news release validated Wilson’s appointment by stating “Dr. Wilson will serve in the interim role while the trustees begin the search for a new superintendent following the departure of Dr. Tracy Johnson.”
Bryce Nieman, Chief Communications Officer with Keller ISD, said in a Feb. 3 email Wilson has not yet signed a new contract for his role as interim superintendent and that Johnson “is still an active employee until the board takes action on an agreement with her.”
Johnson’s resignation was on the Jan. 30 meeting agenda but was ultimately tabled by the board. Board President Charles Randklev said at the meeting the trustees would discuss Johnson’s resignation “at a later date.”
Wilson has worked in Keller ISD for 23 years, first as an educator and then as an administrator. A district news release states he joined central administration as an executive director of leadership in 2013, serving the district’s Title I and bilingual campuses. He later served as assistant superintendent of elementary schools, and most recently as assistant superintendent of education services.
A closer look
Community Impact obtained a copy of Johnson’s contract with the district. The contract, which pays Johnson $275,000 a year, contains language concerning both resignation and dismissal for good cause.
With regard to resignation, Johnson may resign at the end of any school year without penalty, provided she submit a resignation in writing to the board 45 days prior to June 30 of any year during the term of the contract. The board may also choose to accept another notice of resignation from Johnson, as well. The contract also stipulates Johnson may resign at other times “in accordance with applicable law and/or with the consent of the board.”
The board may also dismiss Johnson during her contract for good cause, which includes:
- Insubordination or failure to comply with lawful written board directives
- Willful failure to comply with written board policies or district administrative regulations
- Neglect of duties
“As the CEO and superintendent of this district, you hired me to look out for the best interest of every stakeholder in this district,” she said. “I think the timeline [to possibly split the district] is accelerated. I don't think we have the details. I don't think that we have the answers. And if the community decides this is something that they want, then we need the time and the right way to figure it out.”
