The candidate picked to be the next Atlanta Public Schools superintendent launched public outreach efforts this week in an attempt to connect with parents and staff.
Last week, the school board named Lisa Herring, 47, superintendent of the Birmingham, Ala. school district, as its top choice for APS superintendent. The law requires a waiting period of at least 14 days between announcing the finalist and making the appointment official.
During that time, the incoming leader typically meets with parents, employees and others to answer questions. Because of the coronavirus closures, the board intends to hold those meetings online.
On Monday, the general public got its first detailed look at the candidate when the board posted a 20-minute, pre-recorded YouTube video in which Herring answered questions that had been submitted to the board.
She responded to questions about her work in other school districts, equity and charter schools, among other topics.
In response to a question about what long and short term changes she will make, Herring acknowledged the unique period in which the district is changing leaders. She said she’ll take time to “pause” and listen to others before recommending any changes.
“It is not my goal to come in and disrupt but to come in and help support,” she said.
The school board plans to schedule live virtual meetings to give people more opportunities to learn about Herring. Those dates have yet to be announced.
