EL PASO, TEXAS -- The Socorro Independent School District began the search for a new superintendent Tuesday evening.

The Board agreed to pay Atkinson $205,000 with a full year of medical care.

Mary Benham, the district's associate superintendent of business services, was named acting superintendent. The position is temporary until the board hires an interim superintendent.

Dozens of people attended Tuesday night's special meeting, where emotions ran high. Eight people spoke -- all in favor of keeping Atkinson -- resulting in bursts of applause and at times, bickering.

Board President Karen Blaine said the dismissal was necessary, since Atkinson was at the center of so much division within the district.

The separation agreement goes into effect June 30.

KFOX has followed the turmoil within the district during Atkinson's tenure, and allegations of cronyism and wrongdoing.