The search for a new Minneapolis Public Schools (MPS) superintendent is over as the school board announced on Friday that Dr. Lisa Sayles-Adams, superintendent of Eastern Carver County Schools in Minnesota, has been chosen.
Twenty-five applicants from 16 states emerged in the nationwide MPS superintendent search. Last week, the search was narrowed to two candidates, Dr. Sayles-Adams and Dr. Sonia Stewart, the current deputy superintendent of Hamilton County Public Schools in Tennessee.
“We are thrilled Dr. Sayles-Adams will lead Minneapolis Public Schools into the future and are excited about her deep educational experience, passion for lifting students up and proven track record of improving student performance at public schools,” said Board Chair Sharon El-Amin. “She will provide both a vision and a strategy for continued growth for every student at MPS regardless of their background or zip code.”
Dr. Sayles-Adams has 28 years of experience in education, including as a teacher and principal in Minneapolis, and an assistant superintendent in St. Paul, before moving to Eastern Carver County in 2020. She has been lauded for her firm commitment to ensuring that schools are safe and supportive environments for all students and her belief that all students can learn at high levels.
“This is a full-circle moment for me,” said Sayles-Adams. “I began my career in education working as a teacher in North Minneapolis and that’s where I learned that strong schools make a strong community. I am honored and thank the School Board for their vote of confidence in my commitment to serve as the next superintendent of Minneapolis Public Schools.
“I look forward to partnering with teachers, students, staff, and the community to make sure every student gets the high-quality education they deserve.”
Dr. Sayles-Adams’ starting date will be determined pending contract negotiations and approval. Rochelle Cox has served as the interim superintendent after Ed Graff, the previous MPS superintendent, ended his contract in 2022.
For more on Dr. Sayles-Adams, go here. For more information on the superintendent search process, visit https://board.mpls.k12.mn.us/suptsearch. Look for more on this story in upcoming editions of the MSR.
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