Shawnee welcomes new superintendent after misconduct scandal

Shawnee Public Schools announces a new Superintendent.

The board unanimously approved the hiring of Dr. Jason James this week.

Dr. James will replace former Superintendent Dr. Aaron Espolt, who resigned during a hushed sexual misconduct investigation by the Oklahoma State Department of Education.

The district says the investigation was into decades-old student misconduct allegations from other districts, but none were from his time in Shawnee.

Assistant Superintendent Dr. Teresa Wilkerson has been serving as Superintendent since his resignation.

In a press release, the district called Dr. James a visionary with more than two decades of experience in academic excellence, including time spent at Lawton, Alex and Clinton Public Schools.

“I was drawn to Shawnee Public Schools because of its rich traditions, strong community values, and clear commitment to educational excellence,” Dr. James said. “I saw a district with dedicated educators and a community that genuinely supports its schools. I’m honored to have the opportunity to lead and serve in a place where we can work together to ensure every student thrives both academically and personally.”

Dr. James will begin working with Shawnee Public Schools tomorrow. He will take over the Superintendent role full time June 2nd.