FRANKLIN, Tenn. - The Williamson County School board took another step to try to keep Dr. Mike Looney as Director of Schools.
Last week, he was named the top finalist for Metro's Director position.
After a two hour discussion during the board meeting Monday night, the board voted to extend his contract until June 2019. They also voted to approve some incentives including a 5% raise, a $30,000 retention bonus if he stays until next July, and extra vacation and sick days.
This came after several parents addressed the board to show their support for Dr. Looney and his work over the last six years.
“Dr. Looney, I hope you will stay,” one parent said. “You and your administration have led the district to excel statewide and at a national level.”
Another parent said to applause, “Our chairman would like us to refrain from applause, but I wonder if there are a few people who would be willing to stand and support our superintendent?”
Earlier Monday, four members of the Metro School Board visited with Dr. Looney and several other Williamson County school officials. The site visit was part of their ongoing research before offering him the director job.
Board members said they would discuss the findings from the visit and the results of a background check at a meeting Wednesday.
Board members said the meetings with Williamson County officials Monday confirmed they made the right choice.
“The fact that Williamson is working so hard to keep him is a reflection of the culture of success he has created in Williamson County,” said Jill Speering, a Metro School Board member.
The Metro School Board has planned to vote on offering Dr. Looney the job at their meeting Thursday evening.
Dr. Looney said he won't discuss the contract the Williamson County board offered him Monday night until after he received the offer from Metro.
That meant the earliest he would make a decision would be Friday.
