Oklahoma City schools superintendent says he won't step down

What started as allegations of grade fixing and absence fraud turned into a broader investigation into chronic academic mismanagement.

The principal resigned. New leaders came in. The state Education Department was asked to audit student transcripts — a practice that will expand to the entire district.

Seniors who were missing credits had their scheduled shuffled. Some are going to class on Saturdays, at night, during winter break and online. Many receive tutoring and extra help. Teachers are putting in extra hours. Everyone is hustling.

There's plenty of blame and plenty of finger-pointing. But Springer takes the brunt on himself.

“I feel primarily responsible for everything that happens in the Oklahoma City Public Schools — good, bad or indifferent,” Springer said.

Then rumors spread among district employees and the public that he might resign — maybe even be fired. How could the man responsible for a district so hurt survive a scandal like that?

Springer thought about stepping down. He turns 65 this year and could have retired a decade ago. Should he leave? Would it be best for the district? In the end, he decided no.

“There's much to be done in Oklahoma City,” he said. “The only reason I come to work in the morning is because of the kids in this school district.”

When Springer interviewed for the superintendent position, District 3 board member Phil Horning said he remembers being impressed with Springer's dedication to children.

“Secondly, he is as close to being without ego of anyone I ever met in a similar position of leadership,” Horning said.

Horning said everyone is sick over the Douglass controversy.

“No one associated with the district is satisfied and especially in light of the Douglass issue,” Horning said. “No one could be. But if effort equaled success, we would be successful. But the problems are immense. (Springer) and his staff work hard on them every day. No one is more upset about what happened at Douglass than the people who (are) responsible for the district.”

Board's suggestions

Springer began his education career working with the most profoundly disabled students. He's been a teacher, coach and administrator. He left the top job at Mustang Public Schools in July 2008 to come to Oklahoma City.

He is known to skip lunch because it breaks his focus. Long nights are common; sick days are rare. He's a military man and a marathoner.