The Green Bay school district in Wisconsin has lost its first Black superintendent, Claude Tiller Jr., who resigned on Saturday following his controversial comments on an Atlanta radio show earlier this month.
Tiller’s trip to Atlanta
Tiller was in Atlanta on Feb. 6 for a teacher recruiting trip, where he appeared as a guest on WAOK-AM, a radio station that focuses on African American issues. The host of the show, Rashad Richey, informed Tiller that his appearance would be livestreamed on Facebook.
During the interview, Tiller discussed his experience as a Black educator in a predominantly white district, where he faced microaggressions and stereotypes from some of his colleagues and community members. He also talked about his efforts to improve the academic achievement and well-being of students of color in Green Bay.
Tiller’s off-air comments
However, it was Tiller’s off-air comments that sparked the most controversy and backlash. During the breaks, Tiller made blunt and derogatory remarks about the district, the city, and one of the principals he supervised.
He referred to Green Bay as “the lily on top of the lily”, implying that it was extremely white and homogeneous. He also called a female principal a “wicked witch” and used a slang term that is considered offensive and sexist to describe her.
Tiller’s comments were captured by the livestream and quickly spread online, causing outrage and disappointment among many parents, teachers, and students in Green Bay.
Tiller’s resignation
On Saturday, Feb. 17, the Green Bay school board held a closed-door meeting with Tiller to discuss his conduct and future. After the meeting, Tiller announced his resignation, effective immediately.
In a statement, he said that his remarks were “specifically directed toward the broader systemic issues within public education that contribute to ongoing challenges.” He also apologized for any hurt or confusion he may have caused.
The school board accepted his resignation and thanked him for his service. The board also said that it would begin the process of finding an interim superintendent and a permanent replacement.
Tiller’s legacy
Tiller was hired as the superintendent of Green Bay in July 2023, becoming the first Black person to hold the position. He had previously worked as a teacher, principal, and district administrator in Georgia and Texas.
During his tenure, he initiated several programs and initiatives to address the achievement gap, the teacher diversity, and the cultural competency in the district. He also advocated for more funding and resources for the schools, especially amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tiller’s supporters praised him for his vision, passion, and leadership, while his critics accused him of being divisive, disrespectful, and unprofessional. His radio remarks have sparked a debate about race, equity, and education in Green Bay and beyond.
