Today, Mike Looney turned down the contract from MNPS and will stay with Williamson County Schools. Here is the statement he put out:
My family and I are humbled by the support and prayers we have received over the past few weeks.
The support from the Williamson County community, including parents, former parents, students, Williamson Inc. and the business community, and Williamson County Schools employees has been overwhelming. I also appreciate the support of the Williamson County School Board members who have worked with County Mayor Rogers Anderson and Williamson County Commissioners.
I want to thank the Metropolitan Nashville Public Schools Board of Education for allowing me to get to know them and for allowing me to explore the opportunity of working for boys and girls in Nashville. I was impressed with the warm reception I received. It is evident the Board’s focus is on student success, and I am encouraged about the future of MNPS.
After careful consideration, I have made the decision to remain in Williamson County Schools in order to continue our journey to becoming a district recognized nationally in the academics, athletics, and the arts.
MNPS will most likely start the search process over. I would assume they would hire a new search firm and start the process after the upcoming elections. This will cost the district (and taxpayers) more money.
While MNPS will have to wait for to see what’s next, Mike Looney will sign his WCS contract and make more money than ever before.
I think I speak for many when I say that it feels like our district was used and our time wasted.
It’s time to hit the reset button on this director search and hope that the next batch of candidates are stronger than the last. Let’s get to work!
A press conference by both WCS & MNPS will be held today. Updates will follow.