Ongoing Search for Manatee Superintendent as Students Head Back to School

MANATEE COUNTY, Fla. — As students head back to class on Monday in Manatee County, the district still lacks a superintendent.

The Manatee County School District has narrowed its search down to four candidates. However, on Tuesday, the board will convene to decide which candidates will advance in the process.

In May, the school board voted 3 to 2 to end the contract of former Superintendent Dr. Jason Wysong. His termination agreement allows him to remain employed with the district until mid-August, serving solely as an administrative transitional consultant.

The final announcement for the new superintendent is anticipated on Aug. 26. The district emphasizes the importance of community feedback in selecting the preferred candidate.

Interim Superintendent Kevin Chapman, who transitioned from his role as chief of staff, stresses the importance of parent involvement.

“Parents are key stakeholders and essential customers. The process needs to be open, transparent, and well-communicated. We want to ensure parents can participate and have a say in who leads the school system,” said Chapman.

A community event will take place on Aug. 18 at 6:15 p.m. at Manatee Technical College on State Road 70, offering residents the chance to meet the finalists.