The Batesville School Board has officially appointed David Campbell as the permanent superintendent of the Batesville School District. The decision came during a special meeting on Wednesday, solidifying Campbell's leadership after he served as interim superintendent.
Campbell’s promotion follows the board’s decision last week to terminate the contract of former Superintendent Ginni McDonald. That decision marked the end of a five-month process initiated in May, when the board recommended her termination. McDonald, who had been on administrative leave since February 25, was removed amid an investigation into abuse allegations at a district preschool.
At the same meeting Wednesday, the board also promoted Rachel Horn, previously the district’s director of curriculum and instruction, to fill the role of assistant superintendent, a position Campbell vacated for his new role.
The circumstances surrounding McDonald’s departure have garnered significant attention. While on administrative leave, McDonald became the subject of a due process investigation. In the wake of her termination, McDonald has filed a federal lawsuit against the district and Board President Scott Fredericks. The lawsuit alleges violations of her due process rights.
The Batesville School District is one of several Arkansas school systems undergoing leadership changes in recent months, reflecting a period of transition for the state’s education community.