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PHOENIX (AP) — The executive director of the Arizona Board of Education is resigning after months of conflict between the board and state schools chief Diane Douglas.
Christine Thompson's departure is "absolutely" prompted by the months of conflict with Douglas, board president Greg Miller said Friday.
"I don't think there any specific action that occurred. I just think she's reached that point where it's time to move on," Miller added.
Thompson and her deputy were fired by Douglas in February in a move Gov. Doug Ducey blocked.
Douglas then failed in an effort to get a judge to clarify her power over the board's executives and plans to appeal.
Douglas said she intended to fire Thompson if she prevailed. The Board of Education said it has hiring and firing power over its staff.
In her resignation letter, Thompson said her last day of work will be Nov. 6.
"I am committed to supporting the board and its staff during this transition in order to further the board's ongoing efforts to set policies that foster excellence in public education," Thompson added.
The Board of Education meets Tuesday afternoon to begin the process of finding Thompson's replacement.
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