LOXLEY — The owner of Strategy, Inc., a public relations firm contracted with Baldwin County Public Schools, has resigned.
Jonathan Gray, who also works as a political consultant, resigned Wednesday morning, the day after the Board of Education entered into an executive session during its work session.
The executive session followed numerous complaints from parents expressing concerns over an external consultant having influence and control over school system operations, as well as a lack of transparency.
However, Superintendent Eddie Tyler told 1819 News the resignation had nothing to do with public complaints and that talks to part ways had been ongoing.
"Strategy began discussions with us a year ago, noting that the time commitment did not align with the compensation we could provide," Tyler said in a statement. "This week, they informed us that they had new business engagements requiring them to move on."
According to sources, Strategy, Inc. was being paid around $9,500 a month.
"Strategy Inc. and Jonathan Gray have been instrumental in the progress our system has made over the last decade," he continued. " In fact, there are too many projects to name that would never have been started—or successful—without his leadership. We will forever be grateful for his work on behalf of our system."
Strategy, Inc. was first hired by the school system in 2017. Gray has also worked for AltaPointe and Alabama Electric Cooperative, and has executed campaigns for several candidates, as well as the Baldwin EMC Ballot Initiative.
To connect with the author of this story or to comment, email [email protected].
Don't miss out! Subscribe to our newsletter and get our top stories every weekday morning or become a member to gain access to exclusive content and 1819 News merch.
