The Mexico school board confirmed Melissa Chastain as interim superintendent for the upcoming school year. Meanwhile, Dr. Tammy Lupardus, who was suspended from the superintendent post pending a performance review, announced her intention to retire.

According to school board president Todd Yager, a formal search to fill the position will begin toward the end of the calendar year.

Dr. Zach Templeton will assist Chastain on financial and budget issues. Templeton served as superintendent of Mexico schools from 2017 to 2020.

“One thing I like is she might not know everything, but she will find the answer,” Yager said of Chastain. “She’s a great listener and a great leader. She gets things done.”

Lupardus signed a separation agreement on June 9 requesting retirement. She will be employed by the district through Nov. 30, 2022, continuing to receive full salary and benefits.

The agreement bars Lupardus from being on school grounds or attending district-sponsored activities while under salary without permission of the interim superintendent. It also prevents Lupardus from entering into legal action against the district.

Lupardus was named superintendent after Templeton’s retirement, taking office in July of last year. She was given a contract extension through the 2023-24 school year following a January performance review.

Members of the board praised Lupardus for stabilizing the district’s finances. In statements issued by Dustin Pasco and Heather DeMint, Lupardus received high marks for maintaining in-seat education during the pandemic, as well as the introduction of an administrator and teacher evaluation process.

But a string of resignations and retirements caused concern. During Lupardus’ term, eight administrators left office, including executive director of curriculum and instruction John Kitchens, Mexico Middle School principal Deb Haag and Amber Crane, who retired from the Eugene Field Elementary principal position.

All eight seats have since been filled.

Chastain is a 17-year school district veteran, serving in various roles from teacher to building administrator. She is the assistant superintendent.

“She has done so much for the district that people don’t know about,” Yager said of Chastain. “She is a tireless worker.”

Chastain will have the opportunity to apply for the position of superintendent once the formal search begins.