MPS superintendent finalist interviews; what they told FOX6 after
MPS superintendent finalist interviews
The three finalists for Milwaukee Public Schools superintendent had their final interviews on Friday. FOX6 News planned to question all three.
MILWAUKEE - The three finalists for Milwaukee Public Schools superintendent had their final interviews on Friday night, Feb. 7. And while FOX6 News planned to question all three after their interviews, only one answered on the spot. Here's what happened.
What they're saying:
Finalists were supposed to exit through the same door, where MPS allowed media to assemble and ask questions after interviews.
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MPS said finalist Brenda Cassellius left through the wrong door. FOX6 reached out after to see what happened, and she replied via text to apologize. She went on to say she was humbled to be considered and "felt a sense of hope and readiness." Her full response is available below.
"I know how this works," finalist Joshua Starr said as FOX6 tried to speak with him. He did not stop, and he did not answer any questions.
That left Andraé Townsel as the only finalist who spoke directly after his interview on Friday.
"If this is not the last time you see me, you can expect academic achievement and enhanced student experience," he said.
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Full response from Cassellius:
"I am humbled to be considered for the next Superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools and am excited for the opportunity to serve the students and families of Milwaukee alongside the Board, MPS team, civic leaders and full community.
"The past two days I felt a sense of hope and readiness from the MPS team and community to ensure every child gets what they need to succeed.
"I thank the community for participating in the process, and wish the Board well as they take in all the feedback and seek consensus on their next leader.
"No matter the decision, I have become and fan of MPS and will be cheering on the MPS Board and team as they endeavor to improve student outcomes. Hopefully we will be talking more in the future."
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What's next:
The Milwaukee Board of School Directors will hold a special meeting on Tuesday, Feb. 11. At that meeting, which will be streamed online, board members will consider the finalists. Public testimony will not be taken.
The school board hopes to make a hire later this month or in early March.
Dig deeper:
The former superintendent, Keith Posley, resigned in June 2024 after it was revealed the district failed to report important financial data to the state. The state threatened to withhold millions of dollars in funding as a result.
In July 2024, the school board voted to appoint Eduardo Galvan as MPS' interim superintendent.
Over 50 applications for the role were received, and 48 candidates were considered. The board selected Cassellius, Starr and Townsel as the finalists.
Learn more about the candidates:
- Brenda Cassellius: Former Superintendent for Boston Public Schools, Massachusetts
- Joshua Starr: Former Superintendent for Montgomery County Public Schools, Maryland
- Andraé Townsel: Current Superintendent for Calvert County Public Schools, Maryland
The Source: Information in this report is from Milwaukee Public Schools, the Milwaukee Board of School Directors and prior FOX6 News coverage.