Walker Says He’ll Pursue Federal Lawsuit
In one of their first decisions as a new board, the DeKalb County school board Wednesday unanimously agreed to end the district’s status as plaintiffs in a federal lawsuit. The suit was filed by six former board members who were suspended by the governor.
The school district and former board chair Eugene Walker were listed as plaintiffs in the case. The suit challenges the constitutionality of a state law that authorizes the governor to remove school board members. New board member Joyce Morley said ending the district’s participation in the case was an important move.
“We have to deal with what we’re doing now and where we’re going in the future,” Morley said, “We can’t stay in the past. And in order to be effective at what we’re doing, we have to take care of the children.”
District interim superintendent Michael Thurmond, who urged the state board of education not to suspend the six members, said he was o.k. with the decision.
“The board voted unanimously to do it, and I accept that,” Thurmond said, “And it’s just a matter of moving forward. Turning the page, moving forward. The litigation will continue with the board members that are fighting that battle.”
Dr. Eugene Walker declined to comment publicly, but told WABE he will still pursue the case.
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