Lockwood board approves interim superintendent amid public concern over speed and transparency

The Lockwood School Board on June 13 approved an amendment to the employment contract of assistant superintendent Kelly Kinsey, changing his title to interim superintendent for the 2026–27 contract year, setting a 270‑day term and an annual salary of $135,000. The board also designated Kinsey as a district authorized representative effective June 22, 2026.

The vote followed more than four hours of public comment and board discussion focused on competing concerns: some speakers said an interim hire was urgently needed to ensure operational continuity before the July 1 fiscal-year transition, while others urged the board to complete a previously authorized competitive search rather than fast‑tracking an internal appointment. Gwen Pool, a community member, told the board, “An interim superintendent would provide stable, clear accountability and day‑to‑day oversight during this transition period.” Andrea Myers, the district’s curriculum director, warned that the district needs leadership in place to prepare for the next school year and noted Lockwood serves roughly 1,500 students and employs about 250 staff.

Opponents said the Saturday special meeting, the proposed length of the one‑year interim contract and the size of the proposed raise raised legal and governance concerns. Kelly Buchard said the weekend push had “the disgusting markings of an attempted coup,” and several speakers urged the board to allow the full search process to continue. Public commenters and trustees also cited licensing and accreditation guidance: David Fan cited OPI rules governing endorsements and emergency authorizations, warning that hiring an unendorsed superintendent without proper authorization could create an accreditation violation.

Board discussion focused on the timeline to July 1, the practical need to have someone able to sign contracts and finalize budgets, and unresolved contract language. Trustees said some contract terms would still need to be negotiated and ratified after the board’s approval; one trustee moved and the board approved an amendment restricting the interim superintendent from making unilateral staffing or compensation changes without prior board approval and stating the interim appointment shall not preempt the ongoing permanent search.

The board conducted the vote by roll call/voice; the chair announced the motion passed. The motion to amend and approve the interim appointment was recorded as passing on the record. The board then moved and approved an additional action designating Kinsey as a district authorized representative effective June 22, 2026.

Next steps: trustees said legal counsel will finalize contract language and handle remaining details (oversight, return-to‑position terms, and the interim’s supervisory requirements). The board reiterated that the full superintendent search would continue in parallel with the interim appointment.

Reporting note: the transcript alternates between the spellings “Kinsey” and “Kenzie.” This article uses “Kinsey” consistent with the majority of on‑the‑record references; the transcript contains both variants and that inconsistency remains part of the public record.