Q: Do you have an update [as of interview date of April 17] on the search for a new superintendent for Duval County Public Schools?
A: We received 21 applications by the deadline date. On April 23, at a Special School Board Meeting, the semi finalists will be selected and then on May 7 at 2 p.m. in the Cline Auditorium, again at a Special School Board Meeting, the finalists will be selected. The public is welcome to attend.
Next, on May 13 and May 14, the finalists will be onsite for one-on-one meetings with school board members as well as the board’s focus group. Each board member was able to nominate two people to serve on this focus group; from District 7, we have Reagan Copeland and Dr. Wendy Northfleet. Both have students enrolled in the district and are engaged in the community. Also during these two days in May, there will be an opportunity for the finalists to engage with district leadership and teachers.
Finally, on May 23 at 9 a.m., the school board will meet in a Special School Board Meeting to select our new superintendent. I expect a successful conclusion to the search.
Q: What can you share about the school consolidations and feeder pattern changes in the district?
A: While no schools in District 7 are considered for consolidation, there will be changes to some of our feeder patterns. Our interim superintendent, Dr. Krizner, asked for a consultant to recommend changes to feeder patterns and school consolidations for cost considerations and in order to direct the next five years of our Master Facilities Plan. The school district will set up a website in the coming weeks to allow parents to learn about the feeder pattern proposed changes and give feedback. During May and June, community meetings will be held in each district to allow the community another opportunity to get information and give feedback. The District 7 meeting date is TBA.
The school board will also set up a focus group to further engage community members. Information from the website and the community meetings will be considered and a recommendation will come to the school board in October for the board to take action.
Q: Do you have any kudos to share?
A: I’d like to recognize Dr. Michael George, principal at Atlantic Coast High School, who was named the State of Florida Principal of the Year! This is a high honor not only for Atlantic Coast High School and Duval County Public Schools, but it also acknowledges the high level of principal leadership in our district. We are very excited for Dr. George and for this recognition.
Graduation season is upon us. Atlantic Coast High School will hold its graduation ceremony at 1 p.m. on May 30 and Mandarin High School’s will be held at 1 p.m. on May 31, both at the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena. Congratulations to the Class of 2024!
Q: How can our readers contact you?
A: They can email me at HersheyL@duvalschools.org or call me at (904) 390-2375.
