Ballard Named TPS Top Boss

A new man gets the top job at Tulsa Public Schools.  The Tulsa School Board voted on a contract to hire Dr. Keith Ballard.  The News On 6's Ashli Sims reports he'll replace current superintendent Michael Zolkoski, who's leaving the district in October.

The Tulsa School Board picked their man about one month ago.  And, on Monday night, they sealed the deal without a hitch.

Dr. Keith Ballard's approval was met with applause.  The former Oologah and Claremore Schools superintendent will start part-time in September, while Dr. Michael Zolkoski is still on the job.  And, he'll take the reins full-time in October.

His contract is very different from his predecessor.  There are no performance-based bonuses or cash incentives to stay with the district.  In fact, the contract will be renewed every year for the next four.  But, Dr. Ballard says that doesn't mean he won't be sticking around for a while.

"I would love to do it three to five, or maybe even longer, who knows. I think it is important, because we've had some controversy over the buyout stuff. We take it a year at time. My intention is certainly to stay longer than that," said Dr. Keith Ballard.

The school board president says the advantage of a year to year contract is if the board decides to part ways with Ballard, they only have to pay severance for the balance of a 12-month contract.  With Dr. Zolkoski, they had to pay the balance of a four-year contract.

Dr. Ballard will be paid about $250,000 with benefits.

Related story:

8/4/2008  TPS Board Extends Job Offer