Haywood County Board Names Interim Supt., Battle Loses Appeal,
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Haywood School Board names Interim Director
July 18, 2012
In a short meeting, and by unanimous vote of the school board, Teresa Russell was today named Interim Director of Haywood County Schools. Russell’s appointment comes in the wake of last week’s resignation of Dr. Marlon King.
Russell is a veteran employee of the school system having worked as a teacher, principal and for the past four years as King’s deputy director.
The board’s motion makes the appointment effective today, although King’s last day isn’t until August 17. School Board Chairman Harold Garrett said King will “transition with the Interim…” He said King is eager to help Russell in her new role. King called the appointment “great.”
Russell told board members she planned “to continue on the path we’re on.” She pointed out improved student testing as proof the school system is on the right path. “I’ll offer stability to the school system and I’m excited about it,” she commented.
Russell’s interim contract will place her pay at an annual rate of $95,000. The contract extends from today through September 14 at which time the board will either extend the interim contract, appoint her as director or place her back into her old job as deputy.
Board members did not discuss their procedure for hiring a new permanent director or say how long it would take.
Russell said she would apply for the director’s job.
Sixth Circuit Denies Battle’s Claim
July 18, 2012
The Sixth Circuit Court of Appeals has denied former Haywood County School Board Interim Director Doris Battle’s request for an appeal of her federal lawsuit claiming she was illegally passed over for the head job.
Ironically, the announcement came on the same day the school board hired another Interim Director. Today’s hiring of Teresa Russell is not connected to the earlier lawsuit.
Battle was hired as Interim Director after Superintendent George Chapman retired in April 2008. She had served as the deputy director under Chapman and had been with the system since 1983. She applied for the director’s job but, after a lengthy search, the board hired Marlon King. Battle sued in federal court claiming discrimination. In U.S. District Court Battle’s claims never went to trial and were thrown out in a Summary Judgment. Shortly after the District Court ruled in the school board’s favor, Battle filed the appeal.
According to School Board Chairman Harold Garrett Battle has 30 days to appeal to the US Supreme Court.