Two more finalists for Washoe County School District made their appearances Wednesday in the second round of superintendent Q&A sessions.
Judy Peppler, the chief of staff for Wake County Public School District in Raleigh, North Carolina, and Jane Woodburn, the deputy superintendent for Washoe County, fielded questions about the budget, the district's strategic plan, and why they want the job.
"This is where my passion is," Woodburn said. "I really truly believe that all children need differentiated and a personal learning plan to meet their needs so we can maximize their potential."
"Even though I haven't been in Wake as long as I had intended to be there," Peppler said, "I didn't want to miss the opportunity to get back to the West and to be a part of the really exciting work that's happening here in the county."
All five candidates would have a tough job ahead, filling the shoes of Dr. Heath Morrison, who was named national superintendent of the year. Just Wednesday, Morrison received "exemplary" marks and a standing ovation at his year-end review by the WCSD Board of Trustees.
Both candidates on Wednesday acknowledged the pressure, but said they would be able to continue the growth and improvement that Morrison started, and apply their own skill set to the job.
"I have a track record of really being able to move initiatives forward," Peppler said, "and so I think that my skill set actually fits very well with what the district needs."
"During my first 100 days, I would visit schools, and I would not only meet with principals but staff, and parent groups. And if it's a high school, student groups," Woodburn said. "So it is about getting this feedback loop in."
The district is hosting town hall meetings over the next few days. To see the schedule, and check out the finalists' resumes, click here.
Written by Arianna Bennett
