Art McCoy Jr. has resigned as superintendent of the Ferguson-Florissant School District, effective immediately, according to a press release sent out by the district at 4 p.m. on Wednesday.
“It is mutually agreed and understood that full resolution of these matters is in the best interests of the Ferguson-Florissant School District,” the district release stated. “To those who have framed the issues as racially motivated, the parties are satisfied that each acted in good faith and with the best interests of the Ferguson-Florissant School District in mind.”
McCoy said he resigned pursuit to a separation agreement to “settle all claims with the current board,” according to a statement from McCoy. The terms of any agreement between the district and McCoy were not disclosed. His salary was $217,000.
“I thank all of those who have supported me over the past six years,” McCoy stated.
On Nov. 6, 2013, six school board members voted to place McCoy on administrative leave because of “differences in focus and philosophy between the board and the superintendent,” the board stated at the time.
Many citizens, clergy and parents immediately called the board’s explanation “weak” and “irresponsible.” Students and community members have held several protests since the board’s action.
In July 2011, McCoy became the district’s first African-American superintendent, as well as one of the youngest superintendents in the state at 33. McCoy, a St. Louis native, started teaching at age 19 and became one of the state’s youngest certified teachers.
McCoy was the St. Louis American Foundation’s 2013 Stellar Performer in Education.
The Ferguson-Florissant School District serves more than 11,000 students. The student population is about 78 percent African-American, and five percent of black students drop out of school, a relatively low number for a predominately black district.
Full statement from Art McCoy:
“There is a time and a season for all things. Now is the time for resolution. Today marks the conclusion of my time as the Superintendent of the Ferguson-Florissant School District. I resigned pursuant to a separation agreement to settle all claims with the current Board. I have enjoyed serving, loving, and leading the staff, community, families, and most importantly, the students of FFSD. This part of my journey has been rewarding and I thank all of those who have supported me over the past 6 years. It is because of you that we were able to achieve growth and progress.
However, it is now time for me to move forward in a different capacity to continue on with my mission to educate Missouri’s youth. The district and I have agreed to part ways so that we can both devote 100% of our time to those who most deserve it, the children.
I have no regrets about any of my actions on behalf of the children and families of FFSD. While I may no longer be the superintendent of this district I will continue to be engaged in my life’s work of ensuring that all of Missouri’s youth receive an education second to none. As such, I will always be here for the families and children of our district. The students deserve our support and advocacy for the best education possible.
I intend to be a part of the change needed in Missouri to prepare our children, ALL of them, wherever they live, for a bright and prosperous future. I ask for the continued support of the region as we move forward and I look forward to strengthening Missouri’s educational landscape with you by my side. God Bless.”
