Tom Norris, assistant superintendent for secondary operations, was named interim superintendent November 4, 1993 after Trustees bought out Dan McLendon’s contract for $115,000.
Trustees voted 6-0 for Norris’ appointment. Oscar Perez was absent. Norris will be paid $80,00 and will receive a $400 per month car allowance. Described as “the ultimate communicator” by Trustee Marilyn Blewett, Norris had been with the District seven years. He had a total of 17 years experience in Texas public schools, having been a principal in both middle school and high school in LaMarque ISD. “He’s the man to lead us in the healing of our District,” Blewett said.
McLendon’s resignation as superintendent was effective at 2:10 a.m. November 4, 1993. He resigned as an employee of Round Rock ISD as of 5 p.m. November 30, 1993.
The superintendent and the Board issued a joint statement that said, in part: “The Board of Trustees and Dr. McLendon have certain differences and have not been able to develop a relationship that will continue the success to which this district has grown accustomed. The Board of Trustees and Dr. McLendon want to provide a good education to the children. On that, all parties agree.”
Source: The Round Rock Report: For Employees of Round Rock Independent School District. Vol. 4 No.7 November 12, 1993.
