Somerset Co. Board of Education Names Interim Superintendent
SOMERSET COUNTY, Md. – The Somerset County Board of Education (SCBOE) has named W. David Bromwell as the new interim Superintendent of Somerset County Public Schools (SCPS).
The Board of Education made the announcement at a special called meeting held on Monday morning. The announcement comes after Dr. Ava Tasker-Mitchell’s unexpected resignation last week.
“SCBOE is aware that our students need academic improvements and discipline, [and a] respectful and safe learning environment. Mr. Bromwell’s experience is unmatched, and he will be the most experienced Superintendent on the Eastern Shore,” said member Mary Beth Bozman.
Bromwell was recommended to SCPS by the Public School Superintendant Association. He served for over 35 years in the Dorchester County Public Schools System; as a teacher, principal, dean, student director, and superintendent prior to his retirement last year. His contract to become interim Superintendent for SCPS was unanimously approved by the Board during the meeting.
Bromwell introduced himself and his wife following his approval by the Board. In his opening remarks, he emphasized that his efforts would be directed towards prioritizing the wellbeing of students first, and professional faculty second.
“There are some great people here. I have heard about it all through my career,” said Bromwell. “It wasn’t long ago that this school system was way up the ladder, and we want to get you back to there. There’s definitely people, the community, and the students needed to do that.”
Board Chair Matthew Lankford thanked Bromwell for accepting the interim position, and alluded to what the school district could expect under new leadership.
“One year ago, the voters of Somerset County, Maryland, expressed their concerns regarding the county’s underperforming educational system. The fundamental mission of our public education system is to prepare students to become responsible and productive members of society. Despite consistently allocating the highest per-student-funding in the state, our academic outcomes have remained the lowest. This situation is untenable, and the SCBOE is committed to implementing practical, evidence-based strategies to transform our schools into exemplary environments for learning and growth.”
The SCBOE says they have already implemented several targeted policies to foster better learning environments, including restricting cellphone use, addressing disruptive behaviors, and reinforcing proper classroom etiquette.
“The SCBOE remains steadfast in its commitment to establishing an education system that is second to none in the state,” concluded Chairman Lankford.
