Photo courtesy of Fox 4 News
KELLER, Texas – The Keller Independent School District faced a stormy school board meeting on Thursday evening, culminating in the emotional resignation offer of Superintendent Dr. Tracy Johnson. The session, marked by tension and chaos, centered on the controversial proposal to divide the district into two separate entities.
Contentious School Board Meeting
More than 120 parents, educators, and community members gathered to voice their concerns, hoping for clarity on the district’s future. However, the board offered no concrete answers, opting instead to discuss the matter in a closed executive session.
While speakers adhered to the agenda early on, the atmosphere quickly devolved into disorder. Community frustration boiled over, with heated exchanges between the audience and board members disrupting proceedings.
Superintendent Johnson’s Emotional Statement
Dr. Johnson, visibly moved, expressed her disapproval of the proposed split and the manner in which it was handled.
“I’ll be honest: I don’t want to be a part of it,” Johnson stated, her voice breaking. “I am prepared to offer my resignation—not for theatrics but because I have dedicated my career to ensuring every child has an equal opportunity to learn within Keller ISD.”
Her remarks underscored the growing concerns of many residents who feel the process has lacked transparency and equity.
Community Outrage Over Lack of Transparency
The meeting revealed widespread frustration from the community, many of whom felt blindsided by the sudden consideration of dividing the district. Numerous speakers criticized the lack of communication and accused the board of operating in secrecy.
“You chose to meet in secret—potentially illegally and absolutely in bad faith—in what can only be described as a breach of public trust,” said one speaker.
Another community member, visibly emotional, added, “I voted for you. Your job is to represent all students, not just those on one side of the district.”
The board president, Charles Randklev, repeatedly urged the audience to refrain from clapping after each comment. At one point, escalating tensions led him to call for an immediate recess. The majority of the board left the room, though two members, Joni Smith and Chelsea Kelly, remained behind.
Concerns Over Equity and Affluence
Rumors of the district’s division have sparked fears that the split would exacerbate disparities. Parents argued that the proposed second district—encompassing a less affluent area—would lose access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources.
Many attendees demanded a public vote on the issue, insisting that the community must have a voice in such a significant decision.
Financial Justifications Under Scrutiny
Board President Randklev initially cited financial challenges as the rationale for the split. However, after facing backlash from parents, fellow board members, and Fort Worth Mayor Mattie Parker, Randklev appeared to soften his stance, emphasizing that no decisions had been made.
“This meeting was purely a discussion,” he clarified.
What’s Next?
As the board entered executive session late Thursday night, it remained unclear whether they would act on Superintendent Johnson’s resignation or the proposal to divide the district.
The debate over Keller ISD’s future has left the community deeply divided, with parents and educators united in their demand for greater transparency and equity in decision-making.