Monifa McKnight selected as next superintendent of MCPS

On Tuesday, Monifa McKnight was named MCPS's next superintendent after a unanimous vote by the Board of Education. She had served as the interim superintendent for the past eight months following the retirement of Jack Smith. Along with becoming the first female superintendent, McKnight will also be the second Black person elected to be county superintendent. 

Monifa McKnight selected as next superintendent of MCPS

Photo: Photo courtesy of: Montgomery County Public Schools

Photo courtesy of: Montgomery County Public Schools

According to MCPS officials, McKnight's hiring requires approval from the Maryland State Superintendent of Schools. If there are no complications, her contract is expected to begin July 1 and span four years. Until then, McKnight will remain in the interim role. 

McKight’s term as interim superintendent thus far has been marked with controversy. McKnight has received criticism for the county’s management of surging coronavirus cases. Earlier this year, the county's teachers union, made up of 14,000 members, voted "no confidence" in MCPS leadership regarding their response to COVID-19. 

Additionally, some community members have complained about the lack of transparency and communication in decision making. Last month, McKnight apologized for the county’s mishandling of the COVID-19 situation. 

In her speech after being chosen as the next superintendent, McKnight said her main goals include helping the county recover from the pandemic and supporting students' and staff members' physical and emotional well-being. McKnight also highlighted the need to "rebuild trust" in the community.