The Okmulgee Public Schools Board approved a resignation agreement for Superintendent Clay Vinyard, effective June 30, 2025. Until then, Vinyard will be on administrative leave, with Assistant Superintendent LuVona Copeland stepping in as interim superintendent.

Interest in the board’s Jan. 30 special meeting was so high that the usual meeting room overflowed, prompting officials to relocate to the cafeteria of Okmulgee Dunbar School. Community members, district staff, and students gathered in large numbers, eager for answers regarding the sudden departure of Vinyard, who has served in the role for less than a year.

Following an executive session that lasted nearly two hours, the board returned and, in a narrow 3-2 vote, accepted Vinyard’s resignation. The decision left many attendees visibly upset, including one member of the board, questioning the reasoning behind the move.

State Rep. Scott Fetgatter, who was among those seeking clarity, expressed his concerns: “People want answers, I want answers. Not as a state legislator, I want answers as a grandfather.”

Vinyard described the night as “very tough” but stated that his resignation was not connected to the state superintendent’s investigation into the district. He clarified that he met with the lead investigator and was confident that his administration had handled matters correctly. He noted that any improprieties reported stemmed from the previous year’s activities.

— The Reason for Resignation

According to Vinyard, the primary reason behind his departure was an ongoing personality conflict with Board President Leroy Parker.

“There were just some irreconcilable differences between me and the board president, and I think it’s best for the district and for my family to separate at this time,” Vinyard explained.

Acknowledging the strength of Okmulgee’s teachers, administrators, and students, Vinyard expressed frustration with certain board members, suggesting that internal conflicts were hindering progress.

“We get in this business to help kids, and sometimes people can’t see the forest for the trees,” he added.

— Interim Superintendent’s Statement

Following the meeting, Interim Superintendent LuVona Copeland released a statement emphasizing stability and student success amid the leadership transition: “As I step into the role of acting superintendent mid-year, I do so with a deep commitment to our learners, staff, and families. We have 62 school days left in this academic year – 63 opportunities to inspire, challenge, and prepare our learners for the future.”

Copeland called on the community to unite in supporting students and teachers, ensuring that education remains the central focus despite the administrative changes.

“Change can bring uncertainty, but it also brings opportunity. Our focus must remain on moving forward – on creating the future our learners deserve.”

The resignation has left the community with many unanswered questions. While some support the board’s decision, others are concerned about transparency and the direction of the district.

That concern was further exacerbated by the allegation that the Okmulgee High School Principal Amanda (Thomas) Adams job was on the line. She also has been with the district for less than a year.

For now, Okmulgee Public Schools moves forward under new leadership, but the conversation about governance and accountability is far from over.