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Anne Arundel County Public Schools Press Release October 21, 2024 The Eta Eta Lambda chapter of the Alpha Phi Phi fraternity has named Superintendent of Schools Dr. Mark Bedell as the recipient of its 2024 Trailblazer Award. The award is given by the brothers of the fraternity to an individual who has pioneered new paths, driven innovation, and made significant contributions in their field. In announcing the award, the fraternity applauded Dr. Bedell’s “groundbreaking leadership and dedication to the future of education.” “The Eta Eta Lambda chapter and foundation are honored to recognize Dr. Bedell, who exemplifies our core ethos of education, scholarship and love for all mankind,” Michael Ligions, Chairman of the Eta Eta Lambda Foundation, and Michael Bertty, President of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Inc., Eta Eta Lambda Chapter, said in statement. “His leadership in Anne Arundel Public School Schools has already made a positive impact through his dedication and service and we look forward to continuing to support his efforts in creating a brighter futures for our communities.” Dr. Bedell is in his third year as Superintendent of AACPS, the fourth largest school system in Maryland and 37th largest in the nation. Throughout his tenure, he has championed equity for all students, innovative approaches to instruction and other initiatives, community engagement and ensuring that employees feel they are valued. Since arriving at AACPS, Dr. Bedell has reorganized the administrative team to increase efficiency in delivery of instruction and support to students and staff, brought on board new elementary language arts and math curricula and worked with Transportation Division staff to implement a new alternative vehicle program that has helped to curb a countywide bus driver shortage. Over the last three years, AACPS has also seen the highest increase on statewide assessments in the Baltimore region and dramatically increased access to and passing scores in Advanced Placement courses and exams. Additionally, he has created the Office of Mentoring Services, believed to be the first in a Maryland school system solely dedicated to establishing and enhancing opportunities for staff, employees of outside agencies, and individuals to serve as student mentors. “The members of this fraternity have done an amazing amount of work mentoring and tutoring our students over the years. Their first-person involvement and knowledge of the work that goes on in our schools is what makes this award so special,” Dr. Bedell said. “No school system can be great without great partners and this fraternity has been beyond great in its support.” Dr. Bedell will receive the award at the Eta Eta Lambda Foundation’s annual Masquerade Scholarship Ball on Saturday, October 26, 2024. Source: Anne Arundel County Public Schools

October 22, 2024 At today’s State Board meeting, State Superintendent of Schools Dr. Carey Wright, State Board President Dr. Joshua Michael and State Board Vice President Dr. Monica Goldson welcomed and honored four of the five new Maryland Superintendents. Each spoke introducing themselves, sharing their educational background and journey to their role as Superintendent, then outlining key priorities for their respective districts. Dr. Taylor Thomas of Montgomery County Public Schools was unable to attend today and will be honored at a later time. A brief highlight of the priorities and goals that each Superintendent spoke on are included below. To view and listen to the entire portion of "Introduction of New Superintendents" from the October 22, 2024 State Board of Education Meeting, please visit the Maryland State Board of Education website . Dr. Jymil Thompson - Dorchester County Public Schools Superintendent “Having the opportunity to be the Superintendent of Dorchester County gives me the opportunity to focus on all students, all the time… One of our key priorities for this year is instructional leadership. I believe that it starts with the leaders in the building to ensure that students are getting the best teachers and learning inside the classroom.” Dr. Ava Tasker-Mitchell - Somerset County Public Schools Superintendent “Our priority and main focus is to absolutely build relationships and make connections across our district. The second focus I have is to build and establish strong systems and structures so that we can focus deeply on instructional leadership in and throughout our schools.” Dr. Mary McComas - Kent County Public Schools Superintendent “Our focus here in Kent Co this year academically, is really on those strategies that are aiming to elevate our achievement in both mathematics and literacy. More specifically working with our students around close reading and in math we are pairing that by using the three read strategy with math talks and focusing on our writing standard too.” Mr. Bill Barnes – Howard County Public Schools Superintendent “We have two major areas of focus this year. First, focus on making sure that each and every one of our students is available for learning and that includes prioritizing the safety and security of our students and staff…The second big focus area is certainly the learning itself, making a big move in instruction … making sure our students graduate or leave high school ready for college or career and with their dreams intact.” Source: Maryland State Board of Education Meeting Livestream

Baltimore City Public Schools Press Release October 4, 2024 Baltimore City Public Schools (City Schools) is excited to announce that its 2024 Teacher of the Year, Kat Locke-Jones, is Maryland’s Teacher of the Year! Locke-Jones was one of seven finalists from around the state and will now represent Maryland in the National Teacher of the Year (TOY) program. This program recognizes outstanding elementary, middle, and high school teachers who are excellent instructors and education leaders in their schools and communities. Locke-Jones, who teaches seventh-grade English Language Arts at Hampstead Hill Academy , was surrounded by family, friends, and staff when her name was called tonight during the state-wide announcement. Locke-Jones believes that creating brave spaces for students means reflecting their authentic light back to them. Locke-Jones earned her English Education degree from the University of Delaware (2013) and her M.S.Ed from Johns Hopkins University (2015). Locke-Jones is cofounder of SL24 and Sean’s House, a mental health foundation focused on educating, assisting, and supporting students. As a 2023 TOY Finalist, 2024 City Schools TOY, and now Maryland's TOY, she feels incredibly lucky to teach 7th grade ELA at Hampstead Hill Academy. When she’s not trying to be “the best worst dancer” in her classroom, she is passionate about teaching students to write and tell their own stories. Locke-Jones is the 5th Baltimore City Public Schools teacher to win Maryland’s Teacher of the Year since 2014. Thank you, Kat Locke-Jones, for representing City Schools educators and their relentless commitment to excellence in teaching and growing our city's next generation. Pictured from left to right: Dr. Joshua L. Michael, Maryland State Board President; Dr. Sonja Santelises,  City Schools' CEO ; Kat Locke-Jones, Baltimore City and Maryland State Teacher of the Year; and Dr. Carey M. Wright, Maryland State Superintendent of Schools. Source: Baltimore City Public Schools

September 16, 2024 General Description The Public Schools Superintendents’ Association of Maryland (PSSAM) is seeking qualified candidates for a part-time Legislative and Policy Research Associate. This is a 25-30 hour/week year-round , 1099 contract position with considerable flexibility. This is largely a remote position with the exception of one to two monthly in-person meetings, and periodic travel to Annapolis during the 2025 session of the Maryland General Assembly. Specific Duties & Expectations ● Research legislative, policy, and fiscal issues related to education legislation, regulations and state workgroups to inform PSSAM’s written and oral testimony, correspondence, social media, and other communications ● Assist in developing PSSAM’s annual legislative priorities ● Provide internal executive support to manage PSSAM’s legislative database ● Assist in reviewing legislation and monitoring related hearings during the legislative session ● Provide assistance in preparation of written and oral testimony for PSSAM and its superintendent members ● Provide logistical support for PSSAM’s advocacy activities including scheduling, attending and monitoring meetings with individual legislators, legislative committees/subcommittees, the State Board of Education, state workgroups and other stakeholders ● Work on special projects as directed by the Executive Director or any member of PSSAM ● Perform other duties as assigned Qualifications ● A bachelor’s degree is preferred ● Excellent written and verbal communications skills ● Ability to work well as part of a team ● Strong organizational, planning, and time management skills ● Proficient in Google Workspace – Google Drive, Docs, etc ● 1-3 years of experience with the Maryland General Assembly is preferred ● Experience in education policy and legislative work is a plus, but not required Qualified candidates should respond with a letter of interest and resume to MaryPat.Fannon@pssam.org . The position remains open until filled; however, letters of interest should be received by November 1, 2024 for full consideration. Candidates should be prepared to provide letters of recommendation and writing samples upon request. PSSAM may make such investigations as are deemed necessary to determine the ability of a respondent to provide the specified work, including contacting former employers provided by the candidate at a specified time.

Nominations for the 2025 Maryland Superintendent of the Year Award are open for submissions. All nominations must be received by October 11th, 2024 to be considered. August 16, 2024 PRESS RELEASE:   Who can make a nomination? Self-nomination by a superintendent; or Nomination via school district employee, board member, or community partner with consent of the superintendent. It is not necessary for the superintendent to complete the application at the time of nomination; however, they must indicate they are aware and supportive of the nomination. How can nominations be submitted? Nominations can be submitted to the Executive Director of PSSAM (Mary Pat Fannon) by email at marypat.fannon@pssam.org and need only consist of the nominee’s name. Nominations will be kept confidential. PSSAM's Executive Director will confirm the superintendent’s acceptance of the nomination.   What are the selection criteria for Superintendent of the Year? The selection criteria are aligned with the AASA Superintendent of the Year application. Each State Superintendent of the Year nominee will be judged on the following criteria: Leadership for Learning :  Creativity in successfully meeting the needs of students in his or her school system. Communication :  Strength in both personal and organizational communication. Professionalism : Constant improvement of administrative knowledge and skills while providing professional development opportunities and motivation to others on the education team. Community Involvement :  Active participation in local community activities and an understanding of regional, national, and international issues. Each applicant will provide examples of significant contributions and evidence of attainment of these criteria. What are the eligibility criteria? The superintendent must have completed a minimum of three years as a superintendent in Maryland (this includes time as a Maryland interim superintendent, as applicable). Experience does not have to be in the same district. Prior awardees are ineligible. Who is on the selection committee? The committee shall consist of previous recipients of the Maryland Superintendent of the Year Award who still are active in their roles in Maryland school districts. The 2025 selection committee will include: Dr. Patty Saelens and Dr. Sean Bulson.   What is the selection timeline? August 19, 2024 : Nomination announcements distributed. Nominations will be accepted on a rolling basis and directed to the Executive Director up until the deadline. October 11, 2024:  Deadline for nominations. Week of October 14, 2024:  The selection committee will review applications, interview nominees (if necessary), select a candidate and notify all nominees of their status. November 1, 2024:  Deadline for Maryland winner to complete the AASA National Superintendent of the Year application (the Maryland and national applications are aligned). November 7, 2024:   The Maryland State Superintendent of the Year will be announced at the annual Maryland Negotiating Services (MNS) Fall Conference and PSSAM Retreat, which will be hosted at Ashore Hotel in Ocean City. (MNS is an affiliate of PSSAM) December 2024:  AASA National Superintendent of the Year finalists will be notified. January 2025 : Four national finalists will participate in a national briefing and interviews at the National Press Club February 2025:  The National Superintendent of the Year will be announced. All State Superintendents of the Year will be honored on stage at the AASA National Conference on Education. For any questions regarding the nomination process, please contact Mary Pat Fannon (Executive Director of PSSAM) at marypat.fannon@pssam.org

August 14, 2024 This summer, "The 74" published an insightful three-part series highlighting the efforts of school leaders across Maryland who have recently implemented high-quality literacy curricula. As literacy becomes a central focus under the leadership of the Maryland State Superintendent, these stories underscore the innovative strategies and dedication of educators working to elevate reading and writing proficiency for students statewide. To read all of the three-part series, authored from a first person perspective from each Maryland school leader, click on the article titles below. "Curriculum Case Study: Amid Book Bans and Board Elections, Maryland Schools Embrace the Science of Reading" July 18, 2024 By: Dr. Frederick Briggs, Chief Academic Officer of Wicomico County Public Schools " This is part one of a three-part series spotlighting school leaders across Maryland who have recently implemented high-quality literacy curricula. Frederick Briggs is Chief Academic Officer of Wicomico County Public Schools in Salisbury; below, he reflects on the process of adopting high-quality instructional materials with a strong focus on content knowledge during an age of book bans and controversial school board elections." Classroom Case Study: To Maximize the Impact of Curriculum Mandates, Follow the Science of Reading July 31, 2024 By: Dr. Gary Willow, Associate Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction of Washington County Public Schools " This is part two of a three-part series spotlighting school leaders across Maryland who have recently implemented high-quality literacy curricula. Gary Willow is Associate Superintendent for Curriculum and Instruction at Washington County Public Schools in Hagerstown; below, he shares how the district nurtured homegrown expertise and built community support to ensure the success of their curriculum initiative." Classroom Case Study: Faced With Literacy Declines, One Maryland District Takes Curriculum Design Out of Teachers’ Hands August 13, 2024 By: Dr. Jeffrey A. Lawson, Superintendent of Cecil County Public Schools "This is the final chapter of a three-part series spotlighting school leaders across Maryland who have recently implemented high-quality literacy curricula. Jeffrey A. Lawson is Superintendent of Cecil County Public Schools in Elkton, Maryland; below, he shares the story of how the county turned around years of literacy declines by rallying around a core curriculum called Bookworms — and creating the conditions for “sustainable change” over time." "The 74" is a "nonprofit news organization covering America's education system from early childhood through college and career" Source: The 74

Daily Record Staff July 12, 2024 The Daily Record has announced the honorees of its 2024 Influential Marylanders awards. Influential Marylanders recognizes those who are leaving a mark on the community throughout the state. Honorees were selected by the editors of The Daily Record for their contributions in their respective fields and their leadership in Maryland. Honorees were selected in the following areas: civic leadership, communications, education, finance, freestyle, general business, health care, law, philanthropy, real estate and technology. Elected officials are not eligible for this award because they are by nature influential. Five people are joining the Circle of Influence, as they are being honored as Influential Marylanders for the third and final time. Those being inducted in 2024 are Scott Dorsey, Merritt Companies; J. Kirby Fowler, The Maryland Zoo; Terrance Hasseltine, Maryland Sports Commission; Sandra Kurtinitis, Community College of Baltimore County; and Leslie Simmons, Lifebridge Health. For a complete list of honorees, click here . “The 2024 Influential Marylanders are, quite simply, inspirational. Their hard work and dedication to their fields have changed the landscape of Maryland through their extraordinary efforts,” said Suzanne Fischer-Huettner, managing director of The Daily Record. “They make a difference in communities throughout the state every day. The Daily Record congratulates this year’s honorees.” Influential Marylanders will be honored on Sept. 18, at The Grand Lodge in Cockeysville. The event hashtag is #TDRevents. The event has limited attendance and will sell out. If tickets are available after the sponsorship deadline, a limited number will go on sale. For sponsorship information, contact Fischer-Huettner at shuettner@thedailyrecord.com . For more information about the event, click here . Towson University is the celebration sponsor for this event. Source: The Daily Record

Dr. Michael will serve his first term as State Board President with Dr. Goldson as Vice President; Clarence Crawford named President Emeritus. Maryland Department of Education July 23, 2024 BALTIMORE, MD (July 23, 2024) – Today, the Maryland State Board of Education voted unanimously to elect Dr. Joshua Michael as President and Dr. Monica Goldson as Vice President for the 2024-2025 term. Dr. Michael was appointed to the State Board by Gov. Wes Moore in April 2023. As President, he brings experience as an educator, public school parent, and policy expert to his service. Dr. Michael currently serves as Executive Director of the nonprofit Sherman Family Foundation, which provides grants to non-profit organizations for young people in Baltimore, focusing on early childhood and K-12 education. Dr. Goldson, also appointed by Gov. Moore, began her service on the State Board in July 2023. She is the retired Chief Executive Officer (CEO) for Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), the state’s second-largest school system.  “Over the past year, this board has deliberately elevated the consequential work of educating children in Maryland. We have emphasized values of transparency, accountability and partnership — all in service of improving outcomes for all children,” said Dr. Michael . “As State Board President, I will strive to continue that work and guide us in taking it to the next level.” “Together, we can create an educational system that prepares our students for success in an ever-changing world,” said Dr. Goldson . “I have seen firsthand the impact that dedicated educators and robust policies can have on students’ lives. It is this understanding that fuels my desire to ensure that every student in our state has access to a high-quality education.” During Tuesday’s State Board meeting, Clarence Crawford was named President Emeritus by his Board colleagues in appreciation for his immense service as State Board President for four years. Crawford led the State Board through several consequential moments, including the COVID-19 pandemic, initial implementation of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, and transition of state superintendents.  “I am excited to begin a new journey of collaborative leadership with Dr. Michael and Dr. Goldson in service to Maryland students. Our shared commitment to elevating public education will continue to guide our work, anchored by the transformative opportunity of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future,” said Dr. Carey M. Wright, State Superintendent of Schools . “I also want to express my appreciation to Clarence Crawford for his strong vision and dedication during his leadership term and the entire State Board for its partnership.” Dr. Michael began his career as a middle school math teacher in Baltimore City Public Schools. Previously, he served as the Director of Baltimore School Partnerships at UMBC. He also served as Student Member of the State Board during the 2005-2006 school year.  Dr. Michael received his bachelor's degree and Ph.D. in Public Policy from UMBC and his master's degree in School Leadership from Johns Hopkins University. He currently resides in Baltimore City with his wife, Leslie, and their three children.   A PGCPS graduate, Dr. Goldson began her career as a high school mathematics teacher. Prior to serving as CEO, Dr. Goldson was Associate Superintendent for High Schools, Deputy Superintendent of Teaching and Learning, and Chief Operating Officer. During her tenure, Dr. Goldson leveraged a full-scope alternative financing model to design, build, finance and maintain the internationally recognized Blueprint Schools construction program to build six new middle schools in two years— the very first U.S. public school system to use a public-private partnership (P3) for construction.  Additionally, under her leadership, the 2023 Maryland Comprehensive Assessment Program (MCAP) results showed significant progress in PGCPS to reverse the impacts of pandemic-related learning interruptions. Dr. Goldson holds degrees from three historically Black universities: a bachelor’s in Mathematics from Florida A&M University, master’s in Elementary and Secondary School Administration from Bowie State University, and doctorate in Educational Administration and Policy from Howard University. She also serves on President Biden’s HBCU Advisory Panel. Her two adult sons are both graduates of PGCPS. Source: Maryland State Department of Education Press Release

Montgomery County Public Schools Press Release June 17, 2024 The Montgomery County Board of Education announced that Dr. Thomas Taylor, an MCPS alum, will be appointed superintendent of Montgomery County Public Schools. The Board will vote on Dr. Taylor’s appointment at its regularly scheduled June 25 business meeting. Dr. Taylor has more than 25 years of experience as an educator, with more than 12 years in district level leadership and 6 years as a superintendent. He is currently the superintendent of Stafford County Public Schools in Virginia and has an established track record of success as an education leader. Dr. Taylor was named Virginia Region III Superintendent of the Year in 2024, honoring the student-focused work he led in Stafford County. “Dr. Taylor is an exceptional educator and leader,” said Board President Karla Silvestre. “The Board has confidence in his experience as an educational leader and his ability to guide us forward. We are excited to take this opportunity to introduce Dr. Taylor to the community before his appointment next week.” Watch Video Message: In addition to his knowledge and skill as an educator, Dr. Taylor holds a Doctorate in Education from University of Virginia and a Masters of Business Administration from the College of William and Mary. The unique marriage of an instructional leader with deep understanding of school finance is a powerful combination in a school leader. A strong, transformational leader Dr. Taylor cares deeply about Montgomery County where he was raised and educated. He recognizes the challenges facing MCPS and is ready to lead the district forward. “All things begin and end with the culture leadership creates,” Dr. Taylor told the Board during the interview process, emphasizing his dedication to leading with transparency and accountability. "It is such an honor to serve as your next Superintendent and I would like to thank the Board and community panel for selecting me as their new partner,” Dr. Taylor said. “My family and I are excited to return home to Montgomery County. MCPS has so much to be proud of and yet there is still much to be done to guarantee that every child has access to a great education in our county. I am here to listen and to work collaboratively with our entire community to find solutions that will move Montgomery County and its school district forward.” The belief that all children deserve access to remarkable learning experiences, characterized by equity, engagement, and support is a guiding principle for Dr. Taylor. In Stafford County, he led a comprehensive approach to student learning. This approach emphasizes the learning environment, effective teaching methods, top-notch curriculum, active engagement, fair assessment, high standards, and tailored support for all students. Dr. Taylor championed unique opportunities for students to explore career paths while gaining skills and experience. He spearheaded the development of speciality centers that focus on in-demand career opportunities and expanded work-based learning career credentialing for students. Dr. Taylor established a first of its kind program in Virginia to train students to assist with federal income tax preparation for low-income families by securing a partnership with the Internal Revenue Service. “Dr. Taylor is an experienced superintendent and strong instructional leader,” said Karla Silvestre, president of the Montgomery County Board of Education. “I am confident he will work with students, staff, and the community to make MCPS a system where every child reaches their highest potential.” For Dr. Taylor, supporting students’ well-being helps them be ready to learn every day. In Stafford County, he secured a partnership with the JED Foundation to address student mental health. He also created a partnership with the Fredericksburg Food Bank to open order-ahead, refrigerated food closets at schools - another first of its kind program in Virginia and only the fifth nationwide. Understanding the importance of recruiting and retaining high-quality educators, Dr. Taylor has employed innovative strategies to foster teaching and leadership talent. In Chesterfield County, he spearheaded a partnership with the Carnegie Foundation to create a principal talent management system that improved the principal pipeline, retention, and leadership development. To support and empower teaching staff in Stafford County, Dr. Taylor created an open source curriculum hub where teachers access courses and crowd-sourced teaching materials. He also established a partnership lab school with the University of Mary Washington to train emergent teachers and created a new teacher mentor program. Dr. Taylor holds a Bachelor of Arts from Virginia Wesleyan University, a Master's in Educational Leadership and a Doctorate in PK-12 Education Policy from the University of Virginia, and a Master of Business Administration degree from the College of William & Mary. He and his wife, Sue, are the proud parents of five children. Montgomery County Public Schools is the 15th largest public school district in the U.S. with more than 160,000 students and 25,000 employees. Source: Montgomery County Public School News

Casey Andersen, MAG Conference Event Organizer June 25, 2024 We are excited to announce that registration is now open for the 2024 Maryland Assessment Group Conference, taking place November 18 - 20 at the beautiful ocean front, Ashore Resort and Beach Club in Ocean City, MD! This year promises to provide innovative insights and strategies to enhance your educational practice and the educational system. You will also receive 1 CPD credit for attending. Key Highlights: • Inspirational Keynote Speakers: Learn from leading experts in education • Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow educators and industry professionals. • Exhibitor Hall: Explore the latest educational tools and resources. To register, please visit: https://www.mixtmediamarketing.com/event-details-registration/maryland-assessment-group-conference Early registration is encouraged as spaces fill up quickly. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us at info@magonline.net. We look forward to welcoming you to an enriching and inspiring conference! Source: Maryland Assessment Group

Dorchester County Public Schools Press Release June 12, 2024 Following a national search, The Board of Education of Dorchester County has announced the selection of Dr. Jymil Thompson as Superintendent of Dorchester County Public Schools. Dr. Thompson has been serving as Interim Superintendent since March 2. Board President Mr. Mike Diaz said, “We were fortunate in attracting very well-qualified candidates, but Dr. Thompson stood out as the best fit for Dorchester County Public Schools. The entire Board looks forward to working alongside Dr. Thompson to ensure that all Dorchester County children have the opportunity to reach their full potential.” Prior to his appointment as Interim Superintendent, Dr. Thompson was Assistant Superintendent at Dorchester County Public Schools. He has also served the district as Assistant Principal and Principal of Mace’s Lane Middle School. Dr. Thompson began his education career as a Special Education teacher and held posts of increasing responsibility in the field of Special Education before becoming a school administrator. He holds a Bachelor of Arts from Pennsylvania State University, a Master of Arts from Trinity University, Certificate of Advanced Studies from Howard University, and a Doctorate in Educational Leadership from Indiana Wesleyan University. The Board will formally approve Dr. Thompson’s contract at its meeting on June 13, and his appointment as Superintendent begins officially on July 1. Source: Dorchester County Public School News

Kent County Public Schools Press Release June 11, 2024 The Kent County Board of Education named Dr. Mary Boswell-McComas the next superintendent of schools Monday, June 10. From left are board members Frank Rhodes, Francoise Sullivan, Alden Swanson, Aretha Dorsey, Dr. McComas, retiring superintendent Dr. Karen Couch, Joseph Goetz, Trish McGee and Madison Messick. ROCK HALL — Dr. Mary Boswell-McComas is bringing her decades of experience in education to Kent County Public Schools as the next superintendent. The Kent County Board of Education ratified a contract with Dr. McComas Monday evening, June 10. Her first official day on the job will be July 1. Dr. McComas takes the lead of the system's five schools from retiring Superintendent Dr. Karen Couch. Dr. Couch has led Kent County Public Schools since 2011. “I am humbled and honored to be selected to serve our children and young adults in Kent County. I am excited and look forward to the collaborative partnership with the Board of Education and the entire community of Kent County," Dr. McComas said. "Together we will discover and generate new opportunities for the next generation of Kent County leaders, inventors, creators and artists. I believe in us!” Joseph Goetz, president of the board, said at the June 10 meeting that they had a great slate of candidates for the superintendent position. "But there was one candidate, Dr. McComas, you stood higher, you were bolder," Goetz said after the contract was approved. Dr. McComas also received warm and welcoming comments from other members of the board, Kent County Public Schools staff and community members present at the June 10 meeting. Dr. McComas is currently the principal of Sparrows Point Middle School in Baltimore County Public Schools. She has nearly three decades of experience in public education, having started as a social studies teacher in Harford County Public Schools.  She rose through the administrative ranks in school-level and system-wide leadership roles, including serving as the chief academic officer for Baltimore County Public Schools. Dr. McComas also served in the U.S. Army Reserves, attaining the rank of company commander, captain. "Whether in the classroom as a teacher, chief academic officer or principal, I always keep sight of the bottom line — the children," Dr. McComas wrote in her biography. The search for a new superintendent here started in January, when Dr. Couch announced her plans to retirement. The Kent County Board of Education contracted with the Maryland Association of Boards of Education to conduct the search for the next superintendent.  Applications were due in early April and three finalists were announced May 13 following initial interview rounds. The finalists individually toured each of the schools later in May, meeting students, teachers, staff and administrators.  They interviewed with community stakeholders, the executive leadership team for the school system and again with the board. Dr. McComas made her rounds at the schools and the central office Thursday, May 23. To ensure transparency, the public was kept informed of the hiring process through a special section added to the Kent County Public Schools website:  www.kent.k12.md.us/SuperintendentSearch.aspx . "I want to thank all of the stakeholders that participated in the superintendent search process," Goetz said. "The students, the staff, the teachers, the folks in the public, they were with us every step of the way." Source: Kent County Public School News