Director, School Board reach agreement on shortened contract

March 28, 2022

 

Rutherford County Schools

 

Director of Schools Bill Spurlock will end his current contract on June 30, 2022, after reaching an agreement with the elected School Board during a special-called meeting this morning.

 

Spurlock praised the work of schools during the past four years and the academic growth the district experienced during that time, despite the ongoing challenges presented by the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

“Our goal has always been to give students opportunities to be successful and to ensure they are empowered to choose the most efficient way to pursue their aptitudes and interests,” Spurlock said. “It’s been a team effort, and I am truly honored to have worked alongside so many dedicated educators and staff members through the years who truly have the best interests of students at heart.”

 

Specifically, Spurlock cited programs such as the aviation progam at Siegel High School, the Early College program at LaVergne High School and the Cambridge program at Smyrna High School, all of which launched during his time as director. He’s also overseen the opening of several new schools and facilities, including Rocky Fork Elementary School, Rockvale High School and the Rutherford County Virtual School, and additions at Oakland Middle, LaVergne Middle and Siegel High School.

 

Speaking on behalf of the School Board, Chair Tiffany Johnson thanked Spurlock for his passion for public education in Rutherford County and the academic achievements made during his tenure.

 

Following the meeting, Johnson said, “The director’s position is at times a thankless job, and COVID certainly impacted the past two years. We appreciate all that Mr. Spurlock has done and wish him well.”

 

Spurlock’s contract was scheduled to end June 30, 2023, but he and the School Board agreed to renegotiate his contract to shorten it by a year. The contract with Spurlock provides he is to continue to receive monthly compensation through the end of his original term of June 30, 2023 as provided in the contract.

 

After reaching the agreement, the School Board voted to engage the Tennessee School Boards Association and use its services in the search for the next director. Additional information will be available after TSBA meets with the School Board to discuss the criteria and timeline.