Search for Cleveland City Schools’ director of schools narrowed to 3
The field of candidates for Cleveland City Schools’ new director has been narrowed to three candidates as public interviews have been set for next week before school board members.
The three people vying for the job — Jeff Elliott, of Cleveland; Amie Wilder Lonas, of Tampa, Florida; and Terrance M. Sanders, of San Marcos, Texas — face interviews by the city school board Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, respectively. All the interviews will take place at Mayfield Elementary School at 6 p.m., according to a school system statement.
The three “exemplify the vision, leadership and commitment required to lead Cleveland City Schools,” the statement said.
The school system provided short biographies of each of the candidates.
› Elliott serves as chief of staff at Cleveland City Schools and has a doctorate in learning and leadership from the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, along with several other degrees and certifications in education. Elliott has experience in educational leadership and curriculum development, having served in various roles including chief academic officer. He spearheaded the implementation of STEM programs and the development of district-wide curriculum frameworks to enhance teaching practices and student learning.
› Lonas brings extensive experience in both academic and military settings. Currently serving as provost at the Joint Special Operations University in Tampa, Florida, she has a doctorate in education leadership from Vanderbilt University. Lonas spearheaded organizational change initiatives, developed comprehensive curriculum reviews and oversaw faculty development. She has contributed to the Joint Special Operations University and the National Defense University along with being a force support officer in the Tennessee Air National Guard.
› Sanders, currently serving as deputy superintendent at San Marcos Consolidated Independent School District in Texas, has an education doctorate degree from the University of Southern Mississippi. Sanders has worked in various school districts, including Union County Public Schools in Tennessee, and has led the development of strategic plans, managing substantial budgets and implementing programs to enhance academic achievement.
City school board Chair Nate Tucker did not immediately return a call and email seeking comment on the candidates or upcoming interviews.
The candidate selected for the post will replace former Director Russell Dyer, who announced his resignation in December to take a new job in Collierville, where he previously worked.