Extra

Berkeley Unified School District spokesperson Mark Coplan released a statement this morning reporting that Dr. Edmond Heatley, previously identified as the only finalist for the job of Superintendent of Schools, has withdrawn from candidacy. He has been the focus of sustained public criticism because of his participation in a training program funded by Eli Broad, a wealthy proponent of charter schools and other educational theories, and because his name was attached to a memo to the Chino school board promoting a resolution supporting Proposition 8, which banned same-sex marriage. 

The press release said: 

In an email to Board President John T. Selawsky Dr. Edmund Heatley said, “I want to thank you personally for all of your time and support. I have attached my letter of withdrawal from candidacy for the position of Superintendent of the Berkeley Unified School District. I wish you, the Board and Community of Berkeley nothing but success in the future.” 

The Board will be meeting in the days and weeks ahead to determine the next step. President Selawsky stated, “We will advise the community as soon as we have determined what that next step will be. Fortunately we have two very capable interim superintendents doing a great job of running the District while we work this out.”