The N&R gives Guilford County Schools Superintendent Terry Grier a vote of confidence:

(D)espite the criticism he inevitably attracts in one of the most difficult, thankless jobs in the county, Grier got what he deserves.

Student achievement is up and Grier has pushed forcefully to attract the best teachers to the toughest schools with higher pay and other incentives. Partnerships with the business community are strong and growing. Creative approaches such as early college, middle college and academies are addressing specialized needs and interests among students.

Most recently, the superintendent, the administration and the school board responded quickly and effectively following the Eastern Guilford fire.

The problem is the school board’s vote of confidence– along with a contract extension — came late Thursday night, after the majority of Guilford County parents had gone to bed.

In his typical diplomatic style, school board chairman Alan Duncan said matters concerning Eastern Guilford took precedence over Grier’s contract extension. That’s a debatable point of view, considering the fact that Grier, with expedited powers granted by the school board, will be overseeing those matters.

The N&R finishes up by saying “voters have continued to support school boards that support Grier.” True, but somehow that doesn’t make me feel any better. I know I sound like a broken record, but I’ll say it again — let the voters grade Grier’s job performance.