The School District of Lancaster was prepared to select a new superintendent, but their top choice has announced he has withdrawn himself from consideration.
WGAL 8 reports that Rocky Torres, the candidate that the school district’s board had hoped to take the job, has removed himself from candidacy due to “unsuccessful contract negotiations,” according to a statement from the board’s president.
Torres’ selection had been the source of criticism from many parents, students and staff in the district, including a walkout staged by students and criticism at a board meeting from district residents.
The board was scheduled to formally vote to select the new superintendent on Tuesday, but that item has now been removed from the agenda. The public will still be allowed to comment on the issue at the meeting.
Matt Przywara, the district’s acting superintendent and another candidate for the position, issued a statement in support of the board, asking for the community to allow them to pursue their selection process. In that statement, Przywara said that “during this time, I will ensure that the district remains focused on our mission of providing the best possible education for our students.”
