LYNNFIELD — After nearly two hours in executive session, the School Committee voted unanimously Wednesday night to name Assistant Superintendent of Finance Thomas Geary the acting superintendent for the district, “pending successful contract negotiations.”

While in executive session, dozens of parents anxiously awaited the committee’s return to public session in the lobby at 600 Market St. for the full two hours, with the lights even turning off as the clock ticked past 8 p.m., none seeming to give in and head home.

After the committee voted, member Jamie Hyman made a motion for Committee Chair Rich Sjoberg to sign a contract offer to Geary “on behalf of the School Committee.”

Afterwards, Sjoberg made a statement before adjourning the meeting.

“Mr. Geary has been an administrator in the district since 2006 and currently serves as the assistant superintendent of finance and operations,” Sjoberg said. “His appointment to acting superintendent, in addition to his assistant superintendent role, will assure a continuity of leadership while Superintendent (Kristen) Vogel is on leave.”

On Tuesday, Sjoberg released a statement announcing that Vogel had taken medical leave, effective Monday, Dec. 4. As a result, appointments that Vogel had offered parents and community members scheduled for Tuesday were canceled.

Vogel and the School Committee have received heavy backlash and criticism from the community on her leadership.

Over the last several weeks, parents and community members have expressed their frustrations on a number of issues, including budgeting, transparency, lack of communication, and the large number of staff resignations that have taken place in recent months.

Vogel remains on medical leave and did not attend Wednesday’s meeting.

This is a developing story. Check itemlive.com for updates.