Public, staff see integrity, ability to communicate as key attributes of new WCPSS superintendent

The search for a new superintendent for the Wake County Public School System continued Tuesday as board members prepared to review feedback on what the public would like to see in a district leader.

Posted 9:34 p.m. Jan 23, 2018 — Updated 2:39 a.m. Jan 24, 2018

CARY, N.C. — The search for a new superintendent for the Wake County Public School System continued Tuesday as board members prepared to review feedback on what the public would like to see in a district leader.

The school board wants to make sure they chose the right person as their next superintendent. Since early December, they have gathered input from staff members and 1,500 members of the general public through online comments and public meetings.

Tuesday night, school board members will take a look at some of that feedback.

Data released Tuesday showed that parents and staff both believe educational leadership, the ability to communicate with parents and community members, fiscal management and the ability to manage a diverse staff and student body were the most important skills they hope a new superintendent possesses.

Commitment to high student achievement, integrity, commitment to community and a proactive attitude were among the top traits they hope to see in whoever takes the position.

Current Superintendent Jim Merrill announced his plans to retire in November and his last day with the district will be Jan. 31. Merrill joined the district in August 2013, helping shape the school system’s strategic plan.

Next month Del Burns will step in as interim superintendent. He formerly served as superintendent of the Wake County Public School System from 2006 to 2010, but board members said he has no plans to resume the role permanently.

Additional meetings and candidate interviews are planned for the coming months and the school board hopes to announce the new superintendent by April.

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