Green Bay Area Public School District superintendent Claude Tiller and school board president Laura McCoy attend a meeting on October 9, 2023. PC: Fox 11 Online
GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ-WLUK) – The Green Bay Area Public School District will pay departed superintendent Claude Tiller a lump-sum payment of $250,833.80 after his resignation, according to documents FOX 11 obtained through an open records request.
After making controversial comments on race, the staff and the community on an Atlanta radio program, the district placed Tiller on leave. He resigned on Feb. 17.
FOX 11 requested the terms of separation agreement. After waiting for five-day waiting period as prescribed by law, the district released the six-page document.
Among the details revealed:
Tiller had until Sunday, Feb. 25 to rescind his resignation, but he did not do so.
The payout rationale is described in this way: “District represents that the Separation Amount represents ten (10) months of Administrator’s gross monthly salary and medical, vison and dental benefits of Administrator’s remaining fifteen (15) months on his current contract. Further, the District represents that the Separation Amount includes the District’s portion of the annual WRS payment referenced in the Administrator’s employment contract and all accrued and unused sick leave and vacation pay. Additionally, the District will contribute the outstanding, unpaid amount of the annuity benefit provided for in the Administrator’s employment contract. The District shall also pay Administrator’s counsel, the total sum of $5,000 for legal services rendered on his behalf.”
The district will not oppose any application by Tiller for unemployment benefits.
Tiller waived the right to file any claims or lawsuits for “claims for breach of contract; claims for emotional distress or other tort claims; claims of wrongful discharge or constructive discharge; and claims based on contract,” law and other provisions.
If asked for references, the district will only confirm dates of employment and his title.
Tiller agrees not to make any disparaging statements regarding the district or school board. The district agrees no one there will make any statements which “may reasonably be expected to impair the goodwill, reputation or good name of Administrator.” If either violates the provision, they could owe the other party $50,000.
Tiller released this statement Tuesday:
Dear GBAPS Community,
My family and I would like to express our deepest appreciation for the overwhelming support and love that has been so profoundly expressed by the Green Bay community over the past week.
In addition to receiving an overwhelming number of heartwarming messages through email, text, phone calls and social media, I was also among the 800 viewers of GBAPS Board of Education meeting live streamed last night. For over an incredible three hours, my family and I watched as students, parents, teachers, staff, grandparents, alumni, former board members and community members, all who embody the rich diversity that makes Green Bay so beautiful, one-by-one, mustered the strength and courage to stand alone in front of the world and speak from their souls.
As we listened intently to each speaker, many brought tears to our eyes. Our connection to their experiences was profound; we felt the weight of their challenges and we felt their pain in our hearts. We were moved by their words of hope, reconciliation, and human decency, and were inspired by their commitment to the education of all our children.
The incredible outpouring of support and love has caused me deep reflection. I have come to realize that the sacred trust the Green Bay community has placed in me has shown how this is much bigger than myself. Although out of my control, I want to provide an answer to the pressing question so many continue to ask, by publicly expressing my willingness to engage in conversations regarding the possibility of my return.
I also want to convey my respect and appreciation for the GBAPS School Board. Being a School Board member involves relentless work, all day and every day. As they navigate the complex issues facing public education, we must also continue to acknowledge the vital role they each play in the education of our children.
This district is in the midst of an exciting time of transformation, where the uniqueness of its diverse cultures continues to be weaved into the fabric of our identity. The co-creation of something this intricate requires tremendous patience, understanding, openness and kindness, where every thread, no matter how different, is valued and integral to the strength and vibrancy of our communal fabric as a school district. This kind of work is not easy, and it is essential to recognize that along our journey, we will stumble, and we will experience growing pains, and it is only through grace that we allow these moments to become critical components of our collective growth and understanding.
Despite the uncertainty surrounding the near future, one truth stands out very clearly: those who spoke and continue to speak so courageously have given voice to the voicelessa principle that resonates deep within me. May this serve as a lifetime reminder of the powerful influence a single voice can wield.
Sincerely,
Dr. Claude Tiller Jr.
With Tiller’s departure, deputy superintendent Vicki Bayer is the acting superintendent. The school board is expected to discuss the next steps for fulling the job at its meeting Monday.
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