In an interview with WTVD today, Wake County Superintendent Del Burns explained why he resigned, “The proposed policies of the board are not in alignment with my goals and my vision.” Um, OK.
What do the North Carolina statutes say about the roles and responsibilities of school superintendents? According to ?115C‑276(a), “In General. ? All acts of local boards of education, not in conflict with State law, shall be binding on the superintendent, and it shall be his duty to carry out all rules and regulations of the board.”
– The superintendent is an ex officio secretary to his board.
– The local boards shall prescribe the duties of the superintendent.
Too many people that I have talked to believe that the school board and superintendent are equals. But North Carolina’s laws leave little doubt that the superintendent, appropriately called an administrator, works for the elected school board.
Anyway, good luck to Mr. Burns. Your years of service to the children of Wake County is appreciated.
