MESA, AZ — The Mesa Public Schools Governing Board held a special meeting Monday morning to place Superintendent Dr. Ember Conley on paid administrative leave.
Conley has only been with the district since 2018, after resigning from a job in Park City, Utah.
The board has authorized the start of a search for a replacement for the position, and terms of Conley's departure are being finalized now.
Money from the school’s budget is expected to be used to pay upwards of $250,000 in severance as well as the rest of Conley’s three-year contract, and any costs associated with finding a new superintendent.
Details on what led to the move have not been released, although some have criticized Conley over changes made to special education programs and relocating students.
According to a statement released by the school district, no reason was given for Dr. Conley's leave.
Deputy superintendent Dr. Andi Fourlis will handle superintendant duties until an interim superintendent is named.
