Jackson said he had been unable to publicly respond until now because he was on Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) leave while caring for his mother and recovering from hip replacement surgery. District officials confirmed on July 10 that Jackson had retired after spending several months on medical leave.
With legal counsel by his side, he said has been falsely blamed for the district's ongoing financial crisis and will use every legal avenue to clear his name.
"I will not allow false accusations to define my career, my character or my legacy," Jackson said. "I intend to use every legal avenue available to clear my name and hold those accountable and responsible for making and spreading these false allegations."
Jackson also disputed claims that the district's financial problems had persisted for more than a decade, saying such assertions raise questions about the oversight of previous school boards and superintendents.
“I have documentation that I believe tells a different story than what has been publicly alleged, was privately discussed with FCPS stakeholder groups," said Jackson. "At the appropriate time, I tend to vigorously defend my reputation and pursue all legal remedies available regarding these false allegations and the damage they have caused to my name, my family and my professional reputation.”
The district has faced intense scrutiny since a budget shortfall and missing contingency funds were uncovered last year. The financial crisis has prompted multiple investigations, staff layoffs and the placement of Superintendent Demetrus Liggins on paid leave.
Jackson emphasized that his retirement was entirely his own decision, saying he was not asked to resign, encouraged to retire or threatened with termination. Jackson said he remains proud of his more than 26-years of service with Fayette County Public Schools.
“At no time was I ever asked to resign, encouraged to retire, or threatened with termination. I repeat, at no time in my entire career have I ever been asked to resign, encouraged to retire or threaten with termination,” Jackson said.
Jackson did not provide details at this press conference about what legal action would be taken and said all further information would be coming through his attorney. He is being represented by Christopher Miller with Arnold Miller Law Firm.
