Goar Leaving Minneapolis Schools For Big Brothers, Big Sisters

MINNEAPOLIS (WCCO) -- The interim superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools announced Wednesday he is leaving the district next month to become the next president and CEO of Big Brothers Big Sisters in the Greater Twin Cities.

Goar sent an email to staff in the district to make the announcement Wednesday. He will start in his new role early next month.

Goar served as the interim superintendent after Bernadeia Johnson's resignation in 2014. He took over as superintendent on Feb. 1, 2015, after previously serving as the district's CEO.

The district appeared ready to hire Sergio Paez to take over as superintendent, but contract negotiations ended after widespread public concern over allegations of abuse involving special education students under his leadership at his former district in Massachussets.

Goar withdrew his name from consideration for the superintendent position back in January. He issued a statement Wednesday on what his position with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Greater Twin Cities will entail.

"I am going from an organization that builds brighter futures through education to one that does the same through mentorship. I have a deep appreciation for the role of mentoring in putting children on the right path. We all realize schools can't do it alone," Goar said.

Goar will take over for Gloria Lewis, who is retiring this month after being with the organization since 2005.

The Minneapolis Board of Education said Wednesday finalists for the superintendent position will be determined next week, and the spot should be filled by the end of May.