New OKC School Board Plan Expected To Save Millions, Administrators Lose Jobs

The Oklahoma City school board approved a plan Monday evening that's expected to save the district nearly $1 million a year, but it just cost some high ranking administrators their jobs.

Interim Superintendent Dave Lopez said the goal is to have a smaller and tighter organization at the leadership level. He also said eliminating those positions will not only save the district money but streamline operations.

"I think it's very important to start at the very top of the organization to indicate that all of us need to think about what we need to do to sacrifice on behalf of ultimately our students," Lopez said.

Early last month, Lopez presented to the school board what he called a "six-month transition plan" for the Oklahoma City public school system.

At Monday's board meeting, Lopez recommended the elimination of five central office positions including the Deputy Superintendent; the Chief Operations Officer, which is currently vacant; the Chief Academic Officer; Senior Facilities Officer and the Executive Director of Communications and Community Relations.

"Overall, the district got an ‘F' grade. So, the appetite for change is there," Lopez added.

Lopez said this is part of his plan to streamline operations and provide better support to schools. He also mentioned that these eliminations will revitalize the districts relationship with the Oklahoma City community.

"I think our effectiveness will be enhanced, and yes we do save some money for the future," said Lopez. "It can be redirected to supporting those students and teachers."

The resignations of the five administrators will be effective February 15, 2014. The Interim Superintendent said that will give them a chance to rebuild a smaller team.