Thompson, Tulsa school board reach early termination agreement

Dr. John Thompson resigned his job as superintendent of Tulsa Public Schools Thursday. Thompson's resignation became effective at 4:30 Thursday afternoon, after an agreement to buy out his contract

Thursday, March 16th 2000, 12:00 am

By: News On 6

Dr. John Thompson resigned his job as superintendent of Tulsa Public Schools Thursday. Thompson's resignation became effective at 4:30 Thursday afternoon, after an agreement to buy out his contract was reached early Thursday morning.

The Tulsa school board convened an unusual early morning meeting Thursday to discuss Thompson's contract. After a half an hour, the board announced an agreement.
"We have agreed to compensate Dr. Thompson for leave, vacation and other employment issues in his contract," announced school board president Ruth Ann Fate. "Dr. Thompson has agreed to resign effective March 16, 2000."

The agreement marked the end of Thompson's six years as Tulsa superintendent, and ended a period of negotiations highlighted by the board's refusal to offer a new contract to him followed by Thompson taking a new job in Pittsburgh.

Board members praised Thompson's work once the agreement was reached.
"I thank you because it has made a difference in the community," said school board member Paul Thomas.

Thompson spoke briefly to the more than one hundred people who attended the meeting.
With his voice breaking, Thompson thanked his supporters for standing by him. "I want to thank the board for the opportunity," he said. "I want to thank the 44,000 kids in Tulsa and the parents and supporters. Most of all, I want to thank the staff for their support. Congratulations to you and we'll be praying for you."

The contract ended Thursday, and Thompson had already cleaned out his office in the anticipation of leaving his post.

Now the board will focus on the next superintendent. First, an interim will be named, and then the board begins a search for a permanent superintendent. "It's my hope that we can have a new superintendent as quickly as possible, but at least before the start of school," said school board member Doug Dodd.

The terms of Thompson's contract buyout were not released, pending final signatures on the documents. Once signed, they will become public record.

No decision has been made on the interim superintendent, but board members hope to make that decision within the next two weeks.