FORT BEND ISD (January 7, 2025)—Former Fort Bend ISD Superintendent Dr. Christie Whitbeck dismissed her defamation claims against trustees this past Friday, conceding she cannot legally maintain her claims against them for statements made about her performance. Dr. Whitbeck continues to sue the district for alleged breach of her Voluntary Resignation Agreement.

The district intends to file a briefing with the court arguing that Dr. Whitbeck's remaining claim against the district is without legal basis and must be dismissed.

“We are pleased Dr. Whitbeck now understands she should not have sued the trustees and the district for defamation and has voluntarily agreed to drop her defamation claims against all of them,” Fort Bend ISD Board President Kristin Tassin said. “But we regret Dr. Whitbeck has chosen not to dismiss her breach of contract claim against the district and look forward to the opportunity to brief the court as to why the remaining claim must also be dismissed.”