3 new candidates vying for Huntsville superintendent job

Huntsville City Schools will begin the 2023-24 school year with a new superintendent, as Christie Finley announced in March she would step down at the end of the school year after five years at the helm of the HCS system.

The Board of Education announced that the search for Finley’s replacement has identified three finalists as candidates for the Huntsville superintendent job.

The candidates for the Huntsville superintendent job

The three finalists for the job are:

• Dr. Jermaine Dawson, Chief Academic and Accountability Officer, Birmingham City Schools
• Dr. Bren Elliott, Chief of School Improvement & Supports, Washington, D.C.
• Dr. Clarence Sutton, Huntsville City Schools Chief of Staff and current interim superintendent

All three candidates interviewed Thursday at Huntsville High School. Board members plan to vote to hire a replacement for Finley on June 13.

Finley leaves HCS after 5 years

Finley made her announcement in March that she was stepping down after five years as superintendent, and 30 years as an educator. The district has experienced numerous achievements during her time as superintendent.

A major focus throughout her tenure has been college and career readiness by ensuring students are prepared for college, careers, the military, or the workforce. The district announced plans earlier in the school year to construct a new central office and career technical education facility.

“It is the right time for the district and the right time for my family. Serving as superintendent alongside incredible faculty and staff members has been a true joy. I am looking forward to finishing out the school year strong and continuing to witness the great work taking place in Huntsville City Schools.”

Christie Finley, retired superintendent for Huntsville City Schools

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