NKSB names interim superintendent; one speaks at public hearing on search for new school leader

Dr. Carol Fenn has been announced as the interim superintendent of New Kent County schools beginning Apr. 27. New Kent’s school board made the announcement on Mar. 18 at its regular monthly meeting. She will be stepping in on a temporary basis as outgoing superintendent of schools David Myers will be transitioning into a new role at Virginia’s Department of Education.

Fenn served as superintendent of Rockingham County Public Schools for 10 years upon her retirement in 2017. Her background education includes stints as a first and fifth grade reading teacher, elementary and middle school principal, director of instruction, and assistant superintendent of personnel.

On March 20, a public hearing for Myers’ replacement was held by school leaders. Only one speaker voiced his opinion on qualities he desires to see in the new superintendent.

“It is important that you pick someone with a good general visual, assesses county needs, and make course adjustments,” said Paul Ross, a Providence Forge resident. “That person should have a clear goal of what they want to accomplish.

“I want someone who also demonstrates leadership skills and have specific accomplishments,” he continued. “I want the schools to prepare kids for life instead of focusing on conformity and numbers. Not all kids go to college and I hope the new superintendent values alternatives such as trade schools and certificate programs.”

School board chairwoman Sarah Grier Barber commented that as of the time of the meeting, they had received 336 responses from their superintendent survey. The school leaders are scheduled to meet with the Virginia School Board Association (VSBA) on Mar. 22 and Apr. 24 to discuss the process of selecting a new superintendent. Interviews for candidates will take place in May with the school board’s goal to have a new superintendent in place by July 1.