Interim Superintendent Named Amid State Intervention Of Western Heights

Just one day after the Oklahoma Board of Education took sweeping action in a vote to intervene at Western Heights, an interim superintendent has been named.

Monty Guthrie has been assigned to serve as the superintendent by State Superintendent of Public Instruction Joy Hofmeister.

This comes in response to district superintendent Mannix Barnes’ education certificate being suspended by the board of education in June.

Read: State Board Of Education Moves To Suspend Western Heights' Superintendent's Education Certificate

“Monty is a visionary leader with a track record of unifying staff and developing positive relationships within the school community,” Hofmeister said. “He is a problem solver with a heart for kids, an experienced fiscal manager who values innovative programs that consider all students. The health and safety of the students and staff at Western Heights are top priorities for us, and I’m confident that Monty’s leadership will bring a positive and productive school climate back to the district.”

Guthrie has 26 years of experience in education, according to the OSDE.

The state’s intervention is expected to last one-year as the district remains on probation.  

News 9's Augusta Mcdonnell will have the latest developments in the 4 p.m. newscast.