At the first meeting of the newly elected School Board in Brevard County, District 1 School Board Member Megan Wright brought up for discussion the contract for Superintendent Dr. Mullins. The item was not part of the agenda, so the public had no way of knowing in advance that the board would try to out Dr. Mullins on their first day.
Wright gave little reason for such a drastic move other than she felt the perception from teachers was they wanted new leadership. Gene Trent of District 2 stated he simply agreed with removing Dr. Mullins, and newly appointed Chair Matt Susin who was part of the board that hired Mullins also agreed for removing him, but gave no reason.
Florida Today reported later that State Representative Randy Fine had discussions with all 3 members of his desire for them to fire Dr. Mullins on day one in exchange for his support. Fine told Florida Today that “that’s no secret.”
School Board Members Katye Campbell and Jennifer Jenkins strongly opposed the move. Campbell pointed out that the superintendent executes the direction of the board which he has done since being hired, and that he should be given the opportunity to continue to do so. Jenkins went on to list the many accomplishments of Dr. Mullins since taking on the position. It was clear however, that a deal had already been made, and many believe it happened in violation of Florida’s Sunshine Laws as evidenced by Fine’s own statements acting as a satellite intermediator between the board members.