Board split on accepting Randall’s intent to retire letter

As previously reported, Franklin County Schools Superintendent Wayne Randall submitted a letter stating his intent to retire at the end of his current contract at Monday night’s meeting of the Franklin County Board of Education. Randall’s contract expires on May 30, 2019.

According to Board Chair Robin Cato, board members took a vote to accept or reject the resignation letter with board members split 3-2.

Voting in favor of accepting the letter were Cato, JoBeth James and Eric Burrell. Rejecting the letter were Bo Lowery and Alan Mitchell.

The resignation letter came after Cato and Burrell met with Randall on Dec. 4 and informed the superintendent the board had decided not to renew his contract with the school system.

The primary reason stated for that decision was due to low scores on mandated testing.

Cato said board members will take up the task of seeking a replacement at the January meeting.

In other business, board members recognized the Franklin County fastpitch softball team for the school’s first state title in that sport. Cato offered high praise to both the team and Head Coach Jason Oliver for their accomplishment.

Board members also recognized Bo Lowery as the December meeting will be his final meeting as the Post 3 representative. Lowery did not seek reelection to the post. Randall Gailey will fill that seat starting with the January meeting.