DURHAM, N.C. (WTVD) — Durham Public Schools has announced that Dr. Anthony S. Lewis will be the district's new superintendent.
Lewis was appointed to a four-year term starting Aug. 12 and running until June 30, 2028.
DPS needed a new superintendent after Dr. Pascal Mubenga abruptly announced his resignation from the district earlier this year amid a salary dispute.
Cathy Moore was brought in as interim manager to fill in the gaps and bring stability to the system.
The Durham Public Schools Board of Education said it considered more than 100 applicants for the superintendent position.
After a lengthy search, DPS has selected its next superintendent.
“The School Board is proud of the results of this effort, and we took extraordinary steps to ensure that the quality of our next superintendent would be selected by the people they serve,” said School Board Chair Bettina Umstead. “As a board, we knew that our newly appointed leader needed to demonstrate a demonstrated commitment to improving student academic achievement, a commitment to equity and diversity, and the business acumen to lead this district from a good to a great district. Dr. Lewis' track record and experience met the high standards we and our community expect from the performance of this district.”
Lewis previously served as superintendent of Lawrence Public Schools in Kansas, a position he has held since 2018 and brings 22 years of experience as an educator.
He credits his grandmother, who worked as a school cafeteria manager for 40 years, with inspiring him to go into education.
She greeted all of her students at breakfast each day. Dr. Lewis said her intentional actions demonstrated “initial adult power” and that “what we say or don't say can impact their whole day.” “All adults can instill value in our students and make them feel seen and heard. Now they are ready to learn.”
“I'm in this business to improve outcomes for all students,” he said.
Dr. Anthony S. Lewis talks about how he became superintendent of Durham Public Schools.
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