Adams 14 Board of Education Clarifies Position on Former Superintendent’s Termination

MEDIA RELEASE FROM ADAMS COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT #14

COMMERCE CITY, Colo. (October 22, 2009) – The Adams 14 Board of Education would like to clarify its position regarding the termination last year of Superintendent Dr. John Lange.

First, the Board wants to acknowledge that during his 14 ½ years with the District, Dr. Lange accomplished numerous achievements that led to significant improvements for the education of Adams 14 students.


Dr. Lange’s contract was terminated on September 8, 2008. The contract termination was not for cause. Dr. Lange and Adams 14 had previously entered into an employment agreement by which Adams 14 could terminate Dr. Lange’s contract without cause if less than one year remained on that contract and Adams 14 paid him compensation owed to him for the remainder of the contract period. This is the provision under which Dr. Lange’s contract was terminated.

Dr. Lange’s contract was terminated because a majority of the Board determined that it was time for a change of leadership. The termination of Dr. Lange’s contract was not the result of any concern of the Board of any criminal, intentional or negligent conduct or malfeasance.

Adams 14 recognizes the leadership and service of Dr. Lange to Adams 14 during his tenure from 1994 through 2008. During his tenure as Superintendent, Adams 14 schools showed an overall increase in Colorado Student Assessment Program (CSAP) test scores; Adams 14 successfully passed a new school district bond issue to construct a new High School on land donated by the City of Commerce City to Adams 14; and Adams 14 successfully brought significant additional federal monies into the School District for the benefit of its students. Dr. Lange has consistently been recognized as an outstanding educator.