The Gwinnett County Public Schools Board of Education voted to release Superintendent Dr. Calvin Watts from his contract.
The board for the state’s largest school district held a special called executive session on Friday morning.
Channel 2 Gwinnett County Bureau Chief Matt Johnson was there as they voted 3-2 to terminate Watts’ contract, which was set to expire in July 2026. His contract will now expire in April 2025.
The decision comes as board members cite a need for new leadership, but did not offer a specific cause for his removal.
“We appreciate the wins under Dr. Watts, but the board has decided new leadership is needed to achieve our vision,” said Board Chair Dr. Adrienne Simmons.
Earlier in the week, Simmons says they met to negotiate Watts’ contract, but talks were unsuccessful.
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Watts’ buyout is estimated at $750,000, a cost that drew criticism from board member Steve Gasper, who voted against the termination.
“This is a gross misuse of our powers at this time,” Gasper said. “It’s three and a half months left in the school year. Let’s give him an opportunity to finish out.”
Board members Gasper and Steve Knudsen both voted against the motion to dismiss Watts. Board members Dr. Tarece Johnson-Morgan, Rachel Stone and Simmons voted for it.
After the vote, Watts said the district made strides under his leadership since 2021.
“For the most part, we’ve seen success,” Watts said. “So, are we perfect? No. Are we making perfect progress? Absolutely. Proud of the work we’re doing.”
The board also voted 4-1 to appoint Dr. Al Taylor, current Chief of Schools, as interim superintendent, effective the same day Watts’ departure becomes official.
“We believe that he is the person to help manage this change,” Simmons said. “He is a force of stability. He represents someone that our principals have a relationship with, our many staff members have a relationship with.”
TRENDING STORIES:
Watts became the first Black superintendent in the district’s history when he took over in 2021.
In 2023, parents were split on whether the board should renew Watts’ contract.
They cited several reasons from that school year to say it’s time for a change, including a 35% increase in fights, the murder of Norcross High School student DeAndre Henderson near campus, and a controversial discipline policy that focused on “restorative practices” over tribunals.
The district will begin its search for a permanent superintendent, with board members emphasizing the importance of community involvement in the selection process.
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