September 27, 2013
JACKSON, Miss. – The Mississippi Board of Education stands by the selection of Dr. Carey Wright as the next state superintendent of education. It should be made clear that Dr. Wright’s job in the District of Columbia Public Schools (DCPS) was to provide leadership and supervision in the areas of teaching and learning, early childhood education and professional development, among other duties as chief academic officer. She was not involved with testing of students nor was she ever implicated in any of the cheating cases involving teachers in DCPS. In fact, she remained committed to the work in that district years after the testing issue surfaced.
The Board found Dr. Wright to be an accomplished educator with a central focus on making decisions in the best interest of students so they can have every opportunity to succeed. In her decades-long career, she has served as an elementary principal, director of special education and student services, deputy chief for teaching and learning, and chief academic officer. Former colleagues spoke highly of Dr. Wright’s integrity and character.
Her experience in working in large, urban and smaller districts and with diverse student groups has given her a perspective needed in Mississippi. She has touched all levels of education over the course of her career, and we believe she is the best candidate for the critical role of moving our state forward in educational achievement.
Media Contact:
Patrice Guilfoyle, APR
Director of Communications
601-359-3706
Jean Cook, APR
Communications Specialist
601-359-3519