How the Randolph County Board of Education Chooses Its Next Superintendent

What happens when Randolph County Schools needs a new superintendent

The Randolph County Board of Education appoints the superintendent — the person who runs the school system day-to-day. This is not an elected position. The board, which is made up of five elected members, votes to hire someone for the role. The superintendent serves at the board's pleasure, meaning the board can remove them if the relationship breaks down.

For the 2025–2026 school year, the process depends on whether the current superintendent is staying or leaving. If a change is happening, the board will post the job, review candidates, and hold public meetings before voting. If the superintendent is continuing, no appointment process occurs.

As a resident or parent in Randolph County, you can attend board meetings where this decision is discussed and voted on. These meetings are open to the public, though public comment periods vary by board policy.

Key Takeaways

• The Randolph County Board of Education appoints the superintendent through a public voting process, not an election.
• Board meetings where superintendent decisions are made are open to the public, and you can find the schedule on the school district website.
• If a new superintendent is being hired, the board typically posts the job, reviews applications, and may hold community forums before voting.
• The superintendent's contract and terms are set by the board and may be discussed in open session or closed session depending on state law.

How to learn about a superintendent search is underway

Start by checking the Randolph County Schools website directly. The district posts job openings, board agendas, and meeting minutes there. Look for a "Careers" or "Employment" page, or search for "superintendent position" on the site.

You can also contact the Randolph County Board of Education office by phone or email. Staff can tell you whether a superintendent search is active and what stage it is in. Ask for the timeline and whether public forums or community input sessions are planned.

Board meeting agendas are usually posted at least a few days before each meeting. If superintendent business is on the agenda, it will be listed there. Some districts post agendas on their website; others use a state or county government portal.

What to expect if a superintendent search is happening

When a superintendent position opens, the board typically hires a search firm or conducts the search internally. The job is posted publicly, and candidates submit applications. This phase usually lasts several weeks.

Next, the board narrows the field to finalists — usually three to five candidates. Many districts hold community forums where finalists meet with parents, teachers, and residents. These forums let the community ask questions and give feedback to the board.

The board then interviews finalists in closed session (private) or open session (public), depending on state law and board policy. After interviews, the board votes in open session to hire one candidate. This vote is public record.

The entire process from posting to hiring typically takes two to four months, though timelines vary. The board may negotiate a contract with the chosen candidate before the new superintendent starts.

Where to find board meeting schedules and agendas

Regular board meetings are usually held monthly, often on a set day like the second Tuesday of each month. The exact schedule is posted on the Randolph County Schools website under "Board of Education" or "Meetings."

Agendas are posted before each meeting — typically three to five business days in advance. If superintendent business is on the agenda, you will see it listed. Some districts post agendas as PDFs on their website; others use an online meeting management system.

If you cannot find the schedule online, call the board office. Staff can give you meeting dates, times, and locations, and can tell you how to access agendas.

How to attend a board meeting or submit public comment

Board meetings are open to the public. You can attend in person at the location listed on the agenda. Bring no materials unless the board's rules require them.

Public comment periods vary by board policy. Some boards allow comment on any topic; others limit it to items on the agenda. Some set a time limit per speaker. Check the board's meeting procedures on the website or call ahead to ask what the rules are.

If you want to speak, arrive early and sign up if the board requires it. During the public comment period, state your name and keep your remarks brief and respectful. The board is not required to respond to you during the meeting, but your comment becomes part of the public record.

If you cannot attend in person, some districts offer virtual attendance or allow written comments submitted before the meeting. Ask the board office what options are available.

Understanding the superintendent's role and contract

The superintendent is the chief executive officer of the school district. They manage the budget, hire and fire staff, set academic direction, and represent the district to the community and state education agency.

The superintendent works under a contract negotiated with the board. The contract sets the salary, benefits, term length (usually three to five years), and grounds for dismissal. Contracts are public record in most states.

The board can renew a superintendent's contract, let it expire, or terminate it early. If the board votes to terminate, the superintendent may receive severance depending on the contract terms.

What changes if a new superintendent starts in 2025–2026

A new superintendent may bring different priorities, management style, and vision for the district. They may propose changes to curriculum, school schedules, budget allocation, or staffing.

These changes are usually announced at board meetings and in district communications. If you want to stay informed, sign up for the district's email updates or follow the district's social media accounts.

You can also attend board meetings regularly. Major decisions — budget, curriculum, facility changes — are discussed and voted on in open session, so you can see how the superintendent and board are leading the district.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I vote on who becomes superintendent?

No. The superintendent is appointed by the five-member Board of Education, not elected by voters. You can vote for board members in local elections, and those board members then vote to hire the superintendent. You can also attend board meetings and speak during public comment to share your views.

How much does the superintendent make?

Superintendent salaries vary widely by district size and state. Randolph County Schools' superintendent salary is set in the contract negotiated with the board and is public record. You can request the contract from the board office or check the district's financial reports, which may be posted online.

What if I disagree with the board's choice of superintendent?

You can attend board meetings and speak during public comment. You can also contact board members directly by email or phone to share your concerns. If the superintendent's performance becomes an issue, the board may revisit the contract or hiring decision at a future meeting.

When does the new superintendent start?

The start date is set in the contract and announced by the board. It is usually in the summer before the school year begins, though the exact date depends on when the board completes the hiring process and the candidate's availability.

How do I stay updated on the superintendent search?

Check the Randolph County Schools website regularly, sign up for district email updates, and attend board meetings. You can also call the board office to ask about the timeline and whether community forums are planned.