By Megan Sayles,
AFRO Business Writer,
msayles@afro.com
Baltimore County Public Schools’ (BCPS) superintendent Darryl Williams announced on Jan. 23 that he would not renew his contract with the school district. Williams has oversaw the system’s educational program since May 2019.
The Randallstown National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) is asking the Baltimore County Board of Education to hire an interim superintendent to take over the job for the 2023 school year and conduct a national search for someone to fill the position permanently.
“This is about children, especially African-American children. The research suggests that we should be seeing some improvement in academic achievement by year four,” said Ryan Coleman, president of the Randallstown Chapter of the NAACP, in a letter sent out to the media. “This is not about firing anyone. The current superintendent’s contract is coming to an end. Something must be done to stop the ten-year decline of student achievement.”
The local social justice organization cited the continual decline in academic achievement; ongoing disciplinary issues; a lack of improvement in teacher development, students’ learning and facility maintenance after a budget increase; insufficient communication with staff, community groups and elected officials; and concerns from the Baltimore County Council as reason for the Board of Education to conduct a national search.
On Jan. 23, Williams issued a statement regarding his decision to step down as superintendent.
“After much deliberation and conversation with my family, I have decided not to seek an additional four-year contract. It has been an honor to serve as superintendent of Baltimore County Public Schools, and I thank the Board of Education of Baltimore County for the opportunity to lead this incredible system,” said Darryl Williams in a statement.
“I am very proud of the work we have done together to raise the bar, close gaps and prepare our students to thrive in their future, despite the many challenges our system has faced.”
In the statement, Williams went on to thank BCPS’ teachers, staff and administration who he said strive to deliver a word-class education and endeavor to tackle the academic, social and emotional needs of every student.
“There is more work to be done, but I believe that BCPS is well-poised to make progress toward eliminating disparities in academic achievement and will advance equity and excellence for all students,” said Williams.
Megan Sayles is a Report for America corps member.
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