The agreement states that Whitaker and the board "mutually agreed" that her employment should end at the close of business on Dec. 31, 2026. Under the terms, Whitaker will receive all of her agreed-upon future salary through 2028 under her 2025 contract, with $301,275 payable on Jan. 1, 2027, and $100,425 payable on Jan. 1, 2028.

Whitaker unexpectedly announced her departure on Nov. 10 after three years leading the district. Her last renewed contract ran from July 1, 2025, to June 30, 2028. The district said the agreement does not constitute a termination and is a separation without cause.

Deputy Superintendent Karen Newton-Scott will serve as interim superintendent for 18 months starting Jan. 1, 2027.

While the final contract describes the departure as a mutual decision, an Oct. 8 resignation letter written by the district's law firm, Wilson, Morton & Downs, said the board was "attempting to reach a termination agreement with the superintendent." The letter also said board member Lorraine Irier posted "arguably defamatory statements" about Whitaker on social media.

Whitaker's departure followed an investigation into her use of a podcast studio owned by her husband. The investigation found insufficient evidence of wrongdoing. She also led the district's pursuit of a controversial Early Childhood Learning Center project, which the district ultimately backed away from while exploring alternatives.

The separation package comes as the district prepares for a leadership transition and as parents and community members continue to press for transparency around the circumstances of Whitaker's exit and the cost to taxpayers.