Sumner County Board Extends Dr. Scott Langford's Contract Amid Community Debate

The Sumner County Board of Education has approved a new four-year contract for Dr. Scott Langford, extending his tenure as Director of Schools through June 30, 2029.

 

The decision, made during the board's October 21 meeting, passed with an 8-3 vote.

 

Board members Allen Lancaster, Steven King, and Andy Lacy opposed the contract.

 

The new agreement increases Dr. Langford's annual salary to $225,000, a $25,000 raise from his previous compensation.

 

Additionally, the contract includes provisions such as a one-year salary payout if terminated without cause and the accumulation of unlimited sick days, payable upon departure.

 

Community members expressed concerns over these terms.

 

"He just had a raise that went into effect July 1; this would give him another raise. I don't know of many teachers who get two raises in a year," said Joanna Daniels of Gallatin.

 

"This contract doesn't have any accountability."

 

Mike McClard of Gallatin added, "The way I read it, it gives carte blanche to the school director."

 

During the meeting, Allen Lancaster proposed an amendment to adjust the salary increase to $8,000, setting the base salary at $208,000, with potential bonuses up to 10% based on performance metrics.

 

"One of our most important responsibilities is evaluating our superintendent... This next contract should be performance-based with clear, measurable goals directly tied to our district's priorities," Lancaster stated.

 

The amendment failed by a 9-2 vote, with only Lancaster and Lacy in favor.

 

Following the contract's approval, Dr. Langford expressed gratitude.

 

"Thank you for the confidence and the contract extension, it's not something I take lightly. I value public feedback and comments... one of the bad spots we're in right now is sitting down and listening to each other," he said.

 

"I'm 100 percent for accountability... I love this school system and will continue to pour my heart into it."

 

In other developments, the board approved a two-month holiday on medical insurance premiums for employees, attributed to effective financial management by the central office.

 

Additionally, the 2026-27 school calendar was set, with classes beginning on August 4, 2026, and concluding on May 25, 2027.

 

Notably, the winter break from December 21, 2026, to January 5, 2027, will be referred to as "Christmas Break," a change from the previous "Winter Break" designation.

 

Steven King emphasized, "This needs to be called Christmas Break, because that is what it is, and everyone knows that's what it is."

 

Some members expressed concerns about inclusivity, but the board ultimately voted unanimously for the change.

 

In recent months, Sumner County Schools have faced significant changes.

 

In June 2025, the district announced the end of its free school supplies program for K-8 students, a service previously funded by federal emergency relief funds that have since expired.

 

Families are now responsible for purchasing supplies, with standardized lists provided to ease the transition.

 

In May 2025, the board approved an increase in starting teacher salaries to $50,500 for the 2025-26 school year, aligning with state mandates ahead of schedule.

 

This move reflects the district's commitment to attracting and retaining quality educators.

 

These developments underscore a period of significant transition and community engagement within Sumner County Schools.

 

The board's decisions reflect ongoing efforts to balance administrative leadership, fiscal responsibility, and community values.