Questions Raised About Interim Superintendent

By Ashli Sims, The News On 6

BROKEN ARROW, OK -- A new man is in charge of Broken Arrow Public Schools.  In a split decision, the school board voted to suspend the current superintendent and name a new one.

Dr. Gary Gerber was up for the top job, once before.  But, he was passed over for Dr. Jim Sisney.  Now with a divided school board, and amid his own share of controversy, he takes the reins from the man who was chosen over him.

The Broken Arrow Board of Education's 3-to-2 vote to begin dismissal proceedings against Superintendent Dr. Jim Sisney was met with anger.  And, his suggested replacement was applauded by some, scoffed by others and questioned by some members of the board.

"I think there's a conflict," said board member Terry Stover.

Dr. Gary Gerber announced last spring his retirement from Broken Arrow Schools, after 34 years.  He was most recently assistant superintendent in charge of operations and some say that's the problem.

It all goes back to a controversial contract with Air Assurance.

Suspended Superintendent Jim Sisney claims that contract didn't go through the competitive bidding process and the company charged questionable bills to the district.

In Sisney's civil lawsuit against the company, he says Gerber was responsible for oversight of that contract.

"It seems to me that there should be someone who would be more neutral, who is not involved in a possible conflict of interest with an on-going investigation," said board member Stephanie Updike.

Some board members claim Sisney has the same conflict of interest.

"They for sure happened on Dr. Sisney's watch. Dr. Sisney is able to be in charge of the investigation. So, what would be the difference if they happened under Dr. Gerber's watch?" said board member MaryAnne Flippo.    

Updike argued it all happened under the school board's watch and they're the ones with final approval of every dollar spent.

"If we're going to take it that far maybe we should all step down because we're all in conflict," said board member Stephanie Updike.

The News On 6 asked Dr. Sisney if Dr. Gerber was asked to retire because of the investigation into questionable billing, but Dr. Sisney would not comment.

But, his lawsuit states Dr. Gerber retired without incident, when he was presented with a comprehensive picture of inconsistencies and questions.

Dr. Gerber clearly has his fans on the school board and among teachers.  Many cheered his return.

Related Story:

10/06/2008  School Board Suspends Superintendent