Broken Arrow Public Schools And Superintendent Dr. Jarod Mendenhall Part Ways

The Broken Arrow Public Schools Board of Education and Superintendent Dr. Jarod Mendenhall entered into a mutual separation agreement, releasing Mendenhall from his current contract.

The board released the following statement:

“Dr. Mendenhall served Broken Arrow Public Schools for more than six years, during which he led efforts to transform district facilities, provide greater equity for all students and improve student achievement. He was a constant advocate for public education, students, parents and staff, and many positive changes for our schools occurred through the hard work of staff under his leadership. We are appreciative of his service and wish him success in his future endeavors.”

Dr. Mendenhall added: 

“I am truly grateful for the opportunity to serve Broken Arrow Public Schools and am proud of the progress this school district has made during my tenure, the result of an effective collaboration with an incomparable staff. I appreciate, more than I can ever convey the support of the Broken Arrow community. However, I have determined it is time to pursue other opportunities to serve the public education profession during this exciting era that demands transformational change. I leave with the satisfaction of knowing the board and administration have built a strong foundation that will help guarantee future success for the district.”

During the meeting, the board also approved Dr. Janet Dunlop to serve as interim superintendent effective January 1, 2017. 

A search process for a new superintendent will be determined after January 2017.

Dr. Dunlop was recently appointed as Deputy Superintendent of Accountability and Assessment at the Oklahoma State Department of Education. Prior to that, she served as the Associate Superintendent of Instruction at Broken Arrow Public Schools for six and a half years.

"Because our district is undergoing a period of tremendous growth and change, the board determined it was in the district's best interest to provide continuity in leadership to ensure successful planning and momentum of district initiatives," said Board President Cheryl Kelley. "Dr. Dunlop's familiarity with our district and her expertise will enable her to effectively lead the district during this time of transition. Our goal is to make this transition as seamless as possible for our students, parents, staff and community."