GAINESVILLE, Fla. (WCJB) — The Alachua County School Board voted on Wednesday to extend Interim Superintendent Kamela Patton’s contract through 2027, a move that continues to divide the community.

The board’s 3-2 decision extends Patton’s contract another year while the district searches for a permanent superintendent. The board also approved a change that ties her salary increase to whatever raises teachers receive in negotiations.

The vote comes after more than a year of debate over Patton’s leadership.

Board members shared different perspectives, with some saying the extension provides stability while they hire a search firm, and others questioning the timing and cost. Patton is currently paid $234,000 a year.

Resident Tina Days said Patton is doing the job she was hired to do.

“Ev

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