By Dawn Burleigh

The Orange Leader

 

Dr. Troy V Bethley, of Dallas, was named the new principal a with a 5-2 vote during the Monday night School Board meeting. Demetrius Hunter and Tommy Wilson Sr opposed Bethley.

Bethley has served as a principal in Pampa ISD since July 2013. He holds a Doctorate of Education in Educational Leadership from the University of Texas in Denton, as well as a Master’s degree in Educational Administration and a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary Education. His state credentials include superintendent, principal, special education, and other certifications.

Bethley has additional administrative experience as an assistant principal, serving from 2006 to 2013 in the DeSoto school system, according to a press release.

Prior to the board meeting in closed session to discuss the matter, citizens spoke against hiring a person from outside the area.

“You [School Board] has a history of hiring outside and not the most qualified,” James Woodrow said during citizen comments. “You work for us. If you can’t represent us, then don’t ask for our vote.”

Prior to parents and residents speaking during the comment section of the meeting, School Board President Ruth Hancock asked for mentioning any staff members directly by name.

With several residents stepping up to the podium to voice concerns for the selection of a new principal, several also received a round of applause and a couple even received standing ovations to the nearly full to capacity room.

“We need to hire from within,” Deborah Mitchell, a former staff member and parent of former students, said. “We will never perform at peak without representation of all students, parents and staff.”

Mitchell also pointed out recent hires from out of the area were hired or selected were gone within one to three years.

“We don’t need someone for three years to gain a resume,” Mitchell said. “We challenge you to make the right choice.”