The Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education ushered in a new era of leadership during its meeting yesterday, appointing Dr. Kareem Moncree-Moffett as its new president. Having previously served as a chemical engineer and in various educational roles such as academic advisor and co-teacher, Moncree-Moffett takes the helm with a PhD in educating urban African American students. "I am deeply honored to serve Cincinnati Public Schools' students, families, and taxpayers," Moncree-Moffett told Local12 News. "Together, we will continue to build a brighter future for our community through education."
Eve Bolton will accompany Moncree-Moffett as a vice president, moving from her position as the previous year's board president. Bolton's tenure with CPS is marked by her extensive history as an educator and board member since 2008. The new leadership takes effect immediately, signaling a potential shift in the school district's direction amidst recent decision-making around school boundary realignments and the implementation of middle schools across the district - a controversial topic according to an ad-hoc committee led by Moncree-Moffett last year. As reported by The Enquirer, these changes have been met with both support and resistance among board members and the community alike.
Superintendent Shauna Murphy, appointed permanent superintendent in November, expressed eagerness to work with the new board leaders. "Effective guidance and teamwork are crucial to supporting the success of our students," Murphy said in a statement obtained by Local12 News. Adding Dr. Alesia Smith as deputy superintendent reflects a continuing trend of reshuffling within the CPS hierarchy to bolster efforts toward student excellence and educational growth.
Emphasizing unity and community engagement as Moncree-Moffett plans for the year ahead, she stated in her address, attended by multiple board members and school district affiliates, "I want to bring us together." As The Enquirer detailed, this message of cohesiveness resonates when the previous year has been underscored by stress within the district community. In shifting the focus towards these ideals, Moncree-Moffett and Bolton navigate the waters of educational leadership with the ambition to fortify the bonds between the schools and the populations they serve.
