New D-113 Superintendent Criticized by Parents at her Current Post

Laurie Kimbrel, the next superintendent of Township High School District 113, has drawn the ire of some parents in the Tamalpais Union High School District over a couple of issues including the letting go of two popular high school math teachers in the district, the Marin Independent Journal reports.

Kimbrel is the current superintendent of the California district.

The Journal reports some parents did not trust Kimbrel and Associate Superintendent Michael McDowell’s pursuit to implement the New Tech Network, a project-based learning approach. The two teachers, who apparently refused to embrace New Tech, were let go shortly after implementation.

But Kimbrel told the Journal the two were “probationary teachers” and the Tam High principal had recommended they not be renewed. She said a focal point of her philosophy as a superintendent is to support the principal.

“Allegations that mix up anything about New Tech with the non-renewal of teachers are false, unfounded and insulting,” Kimbrel said - adding that the criticism came from “extremist parents who don’t have the facts.”

One parent, Melanie Russell - who has two students at Tam High - said she is “optimistic” and hopeful that Kimbrel’s replacement and the new administration will be “more forthcoming about decision-making.”

Another parent told the Journal she is “looking forward to a fresh start” after learning of Kimbrel’s departure.

Kimbrel, who makes $224,032 during her last year at the San Francisco-area district, will earn $291,004 a year at District 113 - that includes the benefits added to her $255,000 base salary.

Kimbrel will replace George Fornero, who is retiring two years before his contract was up, on July 1.

“It’s an amazing district with a great reputation and I’m from Illinois and the Chicago area. It was an opportunity that was too great not to look into further. I wasn’t looking for a job,” Kimbrel said.

Read more via the Marin Independent Journal