The Somerset County Board of Education has appointed W. David Bromwell, a retired superintendent with over three decades of experience, to lead the county's public schools on an interim basis. The decision, made during a special meeting on Monday, follows the sudden resignation of the previous superintendent last week and signals a renewed push to address the district's long-standing academic challenges.
Board members have expressed a clear mandate for change, pointing to the district's position as having the lowest academic outcomes in Maryland despite receiving the highest per-student funding. Bromwell's appointment is being framed as a critical step toward restoring discipline and improving educational performance across the county.
Key Takeaways
- W. David Bromwell, a 35-year veteran of Dorchester County Public Schools, was unanimously approved as interim superintendent for Somerset County.
- The appointment follows the unexpected resignation of Dr. Ava Tasker-Mitchell.
- Board leadership has highlighted the district's poor academic performance despite high levels of state funding as a primary concern.
- Recent policy changes in the district include restrictions on cellphone use and new measures to address classroom disruptions.
A Change in Leadership Amidst Academic Concerns
Somerset County Public Schools will be under new management as officials work to navigate a period of transition. W. David Bromwell was unanimously confirmed as the interim superintendent by the Board of Education, bringing a wealth of experience to a district facing significant hurdles.
The appointment comes just days after the abrupt departure of Dr. Ava Tasker-Mitchell. Board members moved quickly to fill the leadership vacuum, selecting a candidate recommended by the Public School Superintendent Association of Maryland. Bromwell, who retired last year after a long career in the neighboring Dorchester County school system, is seen as a stabilizing force.
Board member Mary Beth Bozman highlighted the urgency of the situation. “SCBOE is aware that our students need academic improvements and discipline, [and a] respectful and safe learning environment,” Bozman stated. She described Bromwell’s credentials as a key factor in the decision, noting, “Mr. Bromwell’s experience is unmatched, and he will be the most experienced Superintendent on the Eastern Shore.”
A Mandate for Improvement
During the meeting, Board Chair Matthew Lankford provided context for the leadership change, linking it directly to voter dissatisfaction and poor district performance. He acknowledged that for the past year, the community has voiced concerns over the county's underperforming schools.
“The fundamental mission of our public education system is to prepare students to become responsible and productive members of society,” Lankford said. He pointed to a stark contrast between investment and results that has defined the district's struggles.
Funding vs. Performance
According to the Board of Education, Somerset County consistently allocates the highest per-student funding in the state of Maryland. Despite this significant financial investment, the district's academic outcomes have remained the lowest in the state. Board Chair Matthew Lankford has labeled this disparity as an "untenable" situation that requires immediate and decisive action.
Lankford emphasized the board's commitment to reversing this trend. He stated that the board is dedicated to “implementing practical, evidence-based strategies to transform our schools into exemplary environments for learning and growth.” This new direction is not just about leadership; it involves a series of targeted policies already being put into place.
New Policies for a New Era
In recent months, the school board has taken several steps aimed at improving the learning environment. These initiatives directly address issues that parents and educators have identified as significant barriers to academic success. New policies include:
- Restricting cellphone use to minimize distractions in the classroom.
- Addressing disruptive behaviors with clearer consequences and support systems.
- Reinforcing proper classroom etiquette to foster a more respectful and focused atmosphere.
These measures are part of a broader strategy to restore order and re-center the school day around instruction. “The SCBOE remains steadfast in its commitment to establishing an education system that is second to none in the state,” Lankford concluded, framing these changes as foundational to the district's future success.
The New Superintendent's Vision
After the board's unanimous vote, Bromwell addressed the members and the public, outlining his immediate priorities. Accompanied by his wife, he introduced himself and laid out a straightforward philosophy for his tenure.
“There are some great people here. I have heard about it all through my career,” Bromwell said. His primary focus, he explained, would be on the students, followed closely by the district's teachers and staff. He aims to create an environment where both can thrive.
“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.”
Bromwell's remarks suggested a collaborative approach, emphasizing his belief that the necessary talent and community support already exist within Somerset County. His goal is to harness those resources to steer the district back toward its former reputation for excellence.
Bromwell's Extensive Background
W. David Bromwell's career spans more than 35 years within the Dorchester County Public Schools system. His experience is comprehensive, having served in nearly every capacity of school administration. His past roles include:
- Teacher
- Principal
- Dean
- Student Director
- Superintendent
This extensive background provides him with a deep understanding of the day-to-day operations and challenges within a public school system on the Eastern Shore, a factor heavily weighed by the Somerset board during his selection.
As interim superintendent, Bromwell is tasked with guiding the district through this critical period while the board presumably conducts a search for a permanent leader. His immediate actions and strategies will be closely watched by parents, educators, and community members who are hopeful for a significant turnaround in Somerset County's public schools.
