DeKalb County School District Superintendent Devon Horton has resigned, effective November 15, following his indictment in Illinois. The DeKalb School Board announced his resignation at a meeting on October 15, just days after placing him on paid administrative leave.
The agreement with Horton includes a payment of one month's salary plus any accrued vacation days. This separation avoids the district potentially paying out the remainder of his contract, which was set to run through 2028.
Key Takeaways
- Superintendent Devon Horton resigned from DeKalb County School District.
- His resignation is effective November 15, following an indictment in Illinois.
- Horton will receive one month's salary and accrued vacation days.
- The school board approved a forensic audit of district contracts.
- Norman Sauce III has been named acting superintendent.
Details of the Resignation Agreement
The DeKalb County School District provided details of the resignation agreement in response to an open records request. Horton's annual salary was $360,000. Under the terms of the separation, he is owed approximately $30,000, covering one month's salary, in addition to benefits and any accrued vacation time.
This agreement represents a significant financial saving for the district. Horton's contract extension, approved in July, would have required the district to pay him through 2028 if he had been terminated without cause. The current agreement ensures a clean break.
Quick Facts
- Horton's annual salary: $360,000
- Resignation payment: Approx. $30,000 (one month's salary) + accrued vacation.
- Indictment allegations: Kickback scheme totaling $85,000 from $280,000 in no-bid contracts.
Key Provisions in the Separation Document
Several important clauses are part of Horton's separation agreement:
- The board waived the requirement for Horton to pay the district $15,000 for resigning without prior notice.
- Horton agreed never to work for the DeKalb County School District again. This also extends to attempting to do business with the district, either directly or through another party.
- He agreed not to sue the district for any claims related to his employment as superintendent. This provision aims to prevent future legal challenges.
- A section emphasizing that Horton will not disparage the district or engage in harassing conduct toward the district is bolded and underlined in the agreement.
The Indictment and Community Response
Horton's resignation follows an indictment in Illinois, where he is accused of participating in a kickback scheme during his previous employment. The allegations involve receiving payments for no-bid contracts awarded to his associates. These contracts were valued at approximately $280,000, with Horton allegedly receiving $85,000 in kickbacks.
The DeKalb School Board initially placed Horton on paid administrative leave on October 9 when the indictment became public. This decision drew criticism from community members and state officials. State Senator Emanuel Jones, for instance, publicly urged the district to terminate his employment.
"The board's swift action to accept the resignation and initiate an audit reflects a commitment to transparency and accountability for the district's operations," a district spokesperson stated.
Leadership Transition and Forensic Audit
In response to the unfolding situation, the DeKalb County School Board acted quickly to ensure continuity in leadership. At the October 9 meeting, Dr. Norman Sauce III was named acting superintendent. Board Chair Deirdre Pierce presided over his swearing-in.
Additionally, at the October 15 meeting, the school board authorized a forensic audit of district contracts and purchase card statements. This audit is a direct response to the allegations outlined in Horton's indictment and aims to scrutinize the district's financial dealings.
Background Information
Superintendent Devon Horton joined the DeKalb County School District and had his contract extended in July 2028. His tenure has now concluded amidst serious allegations from his previous role. The district serves a large student population and is a significant employer in DeKalb County, Georgia.
Other District Changes
Beyond the superintendent position, other personnel changes have occurred. Horton’s chief of staff, who previously worked with him in another district, has moved to a position within the district’s wraparound services division. A school spokesperson confirmed that this employee is not accused of any wrongdoing in connection with the indictment.
The forensic audit is expected to provide a comprehensive review of the district's procurement processes and financial records, offering greater insight into any potential irregularities. This measure is crucial for restoring public trust and ensuring sound fiscal management moving forward.
Moving Forward for DeKalb Schools
The DeKalb County School District now faces the task of finding a permanent superintendent while simultaneously undergoing a thorough financial review. The board's decision to conduct a forensic audit signals a proactive approach to addressing concerns raised by the indictment.
The community will closely watch the progress of the audit and the search for new leadership. Ensuring stability and maintaining focus on student education will be paramount for the district in the coming months.
The swift resolution of Horton's employment, combined with the initiation of a comprehensive audit, demonstrates the board's commitment to addressing serious allegations and upholding public trust in the district's administration.
