Outgoing LAUSD Superintendent John Deasy Hints At Run For Public Office
LOS ANGELES (CBSLA.com) — Outgoing Los Angeles Unified School District Superintendent John Deasy hinted Friday at a run for public office, but he would not say exactly what post he might seek.
In a conference call with reporters, Deasy said he had not made up his mind on what he would do next, but has three options in mind – working in youth corrections, supporting the development of future school board supervisors or making a run for political office.
Although he didn't elaborate on what public office he might seek, he was asked what changes he would like to see on the school board.
"I don't run for office – yet," he said.
Deasy, 53, resigned Wednesday after three years as superintendent. During his tenure, Deasy came under fire by from the United Teachers Los Angeles for several reasons – the failed billion-dollar iPad program, the class-scheduling computer problems at Jefferson High School, and his support for litigation challenging teacher tenure rules in the state.
He says, however, his top concern has always been the well-being of students.
"My concern was, is and remains that youth well-being be paramount and that their rights come first," he said.
Deasy said future superintendents should focus on "courageous acts" and not "worry about personal consequences."
Deasy will remain with the district -- which has 640,000 students across 900 schools -- on "special assignment" until Dec. 31.
According to a "separation agreement" with the district, Deasy will continue receiving his salary -- $350,000 a year -- through Dec. 31, and the district will continue to fund his health benefits through June 30, 2015.
While on "special assignment" with the district, he will remain available to assist with the transition to the interim and/or new superintendent, but he will not perform any LAUSD work unless specifically instructed to do so by the district.
Former Superintendent Ramon Cortines was named interim superintendent and will be on the job beginning Monday. Cortines, 82, retired as superintendent in April 2011. This will be his third stint leading the LAUSD.
(©2014 CBS Local Media, a division of CBS Radio Inc. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. Wire services contributed to this report.)
