UPDATED: Fort Worth ISD Superintendent Melody Johnson resigned

It comes as a surprise for most.

Photo by Laura Seewoester

Fort Worth ISD superintendent Melody Johnson

FORT WORTH — Fort Worth ISD's superintendent Melody Johnson submitted her letter of resignation on Thursday. Her letter did not explain in detail why she chose to leave the district, but it did allude to apparent frustrations.

"In recent months ... it has been increasingly difficult to remain effectively focused on the instructional agenda for our students," the letter reads. She thanked the board for "the opportunity to be a part of this very special community."

If the board accepts her resignation, her last day will be September 19, 2011. The first day of school is August 22, 2011. ~~We've asked for explanation from Johnson and we'll update you when we know more.~~

UPDATED: District spokesperson Clint Bond said Johnson wouldn't be available for comment, but he spoke on her behalf. She is leaving the position partly for personal reasons -- family, he clarified. It's also a tough job that she's spent six years doing, he said.

Her resignation was a surprise to many. "Those who were close to her knew about some of the strains and pressures that she had been under, but outside of that, I don't think it was well-known," Bond said.

She's talked about spending more time with her family, but Bond wouldn't confirm that she was specifically headed toward retirement. "She's a Type A person and she may never really retire," Bond said.

The district sends a list of accomplishments. Read more about those accomplishments here.

Below is Johnson's letter of resignation:

May 19, 2011

Dear Mr. Dickerson and Members of the Board:

With reflections of deep gratitude for six years of service to the Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD), I offer you my resignation as superintendent effective September 19, 2011. It has been my great privilege to have provided leadership to the 12,000 employees, our 81,000 students and their families and to become part of this great community.

For 36 years I have been involved in unifying educators and working side-by-side with them to ensure the best for students. In recent months, however, it has been increasingly difficult to remain effectively focused on the instructional agenda for our students.

Fort Worth Independent School District has made tremendous progress and has the potential for greatness. I am deeply grateful for the honor and privilege of serving this school system and the opportunity to be a part of this very special community. Please be assured you will have all of my energy and focus for the remaining months.

Respectfully,

mj