The controversy surrounding the retirement of Fort Bend ISD Superintendent Christie Whitbeck has sparked heated debate and allegations of unethical behavior within the district’s board.
The decision to accept Whitbeck’s retirement has raised concerns among many in the Fort Bend community, given the impact it will have on the district’s nearly 80,000 families. Taxpayers will also bear the financial burden of Whitbeck’s severance agreement, which amounts to $490,000, in addition to the interim superintendent’s salary.
Board member Kristen Malone has been vocal in her opposition to Whitbeck’s retirement, questioning the sudden departure of a superintendent who had recently received a salary raise and a contract extension. Malone alleged that Whitbeck was forced out due to personal conflicts with other board members, particularly board president Judy Dae.
Malone claimed that Dae gave Whitbeck an ultimatum to retire or face being voted out, a move she described as an abuse of power. Malone further alleged that Dae implied she had the support of other board members, potentially violating the Texas Meetings Act.
Despite Malone’s efforts to shed light on the situation, she was silenced during the board meeting and unable to fully discuss the matter. In a subsequent interview with ABC13, Malone shared the details of her conversation with Whitbeck, where the superintendent revealed that she had been pressured to retire.
The district’s response to the allegations has been met with skepticism, as Fort Bend ISD declined to release the separation agreement and Whitbeck has not responded to requests for comment. Dae released a letter addressing the situation, denying that personal issues were at play and criticizing Malone for publicly sharing confidential information about a personnel matter.
The lack of transparency and the quick turnaround in the search for a new superintendent has raised additional concerns about the district’s handling of the situation. The posting for the superintendent position with a closing date of January 2 has raised eyebrows, as such processes typically take months to complete.
The situation has raised questions about the integrity of the district’s leadership and the need for greater transparency in its decision-making processes. As the controversy continues to unfold, many in the Fort Bend community are urging for accountability and a fair and open process in addressing the issues at hand.