MADISON COUNTY, Fla. (WTXL) — Karen Pickles, the Madison County Superintendent, has confirmed that she has resigned from her position.
In a letter to the Madison County School Board, Pickles notified the board that her last day as superintendent will be on April 30. Citing "intentional micro-management" over the past three and a half months, Pickles says that the journey has caused her reevaluate her position.
"After pouring my heart and soul into making effective changes for our students, the superintendent and board have reached a position where I personally feel my position is ignored, the board makes their own recommendations, and the position of superintendent is not considered in actions," she wrote.
In the past, the board has considered closing schools and implementing forced, unpaid leave.Pickles expressed opposition to the idea then, saying that the plan would put undue stress on employees.
Pickles cited some of the district's accomplishments in the letter, attributing the county's largest financial increase since 2012 to her leadership.
"I can truly say I did what I was elected to do--improve our schools," Pickles wrote. "I truly hope each of you remember why you were elected and focus on our students and govern through policy--something each of you has lost sight off and seem to have forgotten overall the last several months."
Carol Gibson, the chairman of the school board, shared the following statement with WTXL:
“Dr. Pickles contributed in many positive ways to the district. I wish her well in the future and the county looks forward to working with whoever the Governor appoints. The Madison County School Board is committed to doing whatever is in the best interest of the students, staff and community.”
You can read Pickles' full letter below:
Madison County Superintendent resignation latter by Elyse Bell on Scribd
