Dr. Carey M. Wright Appointed Maryland State Superintendent of Schools

MARYLAND News (4/24/2024) – Maryland’s education landscape is set for a significant shift as the Maryland State Board of Education announces the appointment of Dr. Carey M. Wright as the next State Superintendent of Schools. The decision, reached unanimously on April 24, 2024, comes after a meticulous nationwide search process conducted since October 2023. Dr. Wright, who has served as the Interim State Superintendent since October 23, 2023, brings a wealth of experience and a proven track record in education leadership to her new role.

The selection of Dr. Wright follows a comprehensive process facilitated by the firm Hazard Young, Attea and Associates (HYA), tasked with identifying a candidate capable of driving positive change within Maryland’s education system. Dr. Joshua Michael, Search Committee Chair and State Board Vice President, emphasized the importance of finding a leader with a deep understanding of Maryland’s educational landscape and a demonstrated ability to improve student outcomes.

Dr. Wright’s extensive career in education spans decades, with notable roles in various Maryland public school systems, including Prince George’s, Howard, and Montgomery County Public Schools. Her experience as a teacher, principal, director of special education, and associate superintendent, coupled with her tenure as Chief Academic Officer in DC Public Schools, positions her as a seasoned leader with intimate knowledge of the challenges and opportunities facing Maryland’s schools.

Governor Wes Moore expressed confidence in Dr. Wright’s ability to champion the needs of students and elevate Maryland’s public education system to new heights. He highlighted her commitment to ensuring that every student, regardless of background, receives a high-quality education that prepares them for success in both academia and life.

During her tenure as Interim State Superintendent, Dr. Wright has already made significant strides in collaboration with the Maryland State Department of Education (MSDE) and key stakeholders. Her leadership has facilitated a smooth transition in superintendent administrations and laid the groundwork for initiatives aimed at improving math and literacy rates across the state.

In assuming her new role, Dr. Wright articulated her vision for Maryland’s education system, emphasizing the importance of advancing literacy and mathematics education from prekindergarten through high school graduation. She expressed a commitment to fostering transformational change that will benefit current and future generations of students.

Dr. Wright’s appointment comes with high expectations from the State Board of Education, as evidenced by President Clarence Crawford’s assertion that she is the ideal leader for this pivotal moment in Maryland’s education history. With a clear mandate to execute the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future and drive tangible results for students, Dr. Wright is poised to lead the state’s education system through a period of significant transformation.

As she prepares to embark on her full four-year term starting July 1, 2024, Dr. Wright’s leadership and vision offer a beacon of hope for the future of education in Maryland. With her experience, expertise, and unwavering dedication to student success, she stands ready to guide Maryland’s schools toward excellence.

Story by multiple RFHC contributors.

[wtpsw_carousel]