MOCO Schools Superintendent Search Is On, Info Sessions Planned

MONTGOMERY COUNTY, MD — Montgomery County Schools is gearing up for a new superintendent search, and one of the next steps is gauging what parents and residents are looking for in their new leader.

Monifa McKnight has been the acting superintendent since former Superintendent Jack Smith announced his planned retirement in January, citing family health issues.

"The 17 school board members I have served with have been amazing. They're strong individuals who are committed to the best interests of the students here," he said in a video announcing his resignation from the position. "The staff is among the most talented I've met — and dedicated. So while I may be leaving Montgomery County Public Schools, I know it will go forward and do very well, and that there will be a part of my heart here as I go away this spring to a different obligation and a different adventure."

McKnight told Bethesda Magazine over the summer that she is planning to apply for the permanent position.

The superintendent is responsible for the administration of the entire school system, as well as for recommending changes for the School Board's approval, according to the job posting. The district is sending out a survey for parents, teachers, staff and community members to fill out, as well as holding a few community forums to see what ranks the highest on the list of priorities for the district.

Part of the survey asks for the participants to pick four of the following as the most important attributes for the new superintendent:

Effectively plan and manage the long-term financial health of the District

Be an effective manager of the Districts’ day-to-day operations

Be visible throughout the District and actively engaged in community life

Provide transparent communication

Understand and be sensitive to the needs of a diverse student population

Provide a clear, compelling vision for the future

Establish a culture of high expectations for all students and personnel

Demonstrate a deep understanding of educational research and emerging best practices and implement strategies

Provide guidance for district-wide curriculum and instruction

Foster a positive, professional climate of mutual trust and respect among faculty, staff, and administrators

Integrate personalized educational opportunities into the instructional program

Recruit, employ, and retain effective personnel throughout the District and its schools

The first community forum will be held Saturday, Oct. 30 from 10 a.m. to noon on Zoom. The other two will be on Nov. 4 and Nov. 10, both from 7 to 9 p.m.