Santa Fe Public Schools Superintendent Joel D. Boyd has withdrawn as the sole finalist to fill the Fort Worth school district superintendent vacancy, according to district’s website.
Boyd notified trustees of his decision at 7 p.m. Saturday in an email writing,“… the Santa Fe community has helped me to realize that the timing is not right and that we need to continue forward and not lose momentum for the sake of our children.”
“While it was a difficult decision, I respectfully withdraw my candidacy for the position of Superintendent of the Fort Worth Independent School District.”
Fort Worth ISD’s Board of Trustees voted 7-0 on Feb. 7 to name Boyd as the sole finalist for the position and was slated to make him a final job offer on March 7.
Boyd’s withdrawal comes a day after Sante Fe Public School’s board met to discuss possible contract amendments as a means for his retainment.
Though no action was taken to change Boyd’s contract or increase his salary, an incoming Santa Fe board member, Maureen Cashmon, said Boyd had “betrayed” the city by entertaining the Fort Worth ISD position and hoped the district hired him.
At the last Fort Worth ISD board meeting on Feb. 23, parents and educator association leaders voiced their concerns about the possible new superintendent, pointing out his short tenure in Sante Fe and the difference of size between the two districts.
Boyd has served as superintendent of Sante Fe Public Schools since 2012. The district is reported to have around 13,000 students – a low number compared to Fort Worth ISD’s 86,000.
Interim Superintendent Pat Linares is expected to remain in her role, according to the press release. Linares has led the district since former superintendent Walter Dansby resigned in June.