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PGCPS Superintendent Search Underway After Henderson's Resignation

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  Published in Science and Technology on Wednesday, April 1st 2026 at 12:45 GMT by WTOP News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Upper Marlboro, MD - April 1st, 2026 - The future leadership of Prince George's County Public Schools (PGCPS) is under intense scrutiny as a committee established by the Maryland Department of Education (MSDE) embarks on a search for a permanent superintendent. The process follows the recent resignation of Dr. Alvin Henderson, who dedicated sixteen years to the role, leaving a significant void and prompting a critical juncture for the district.

The departure of a long-serving superintendent always signals a period of transition, but in PGCPS, the search comes at a time of complex challenges and evolving needs. Declining enrollment, persistent achievement gaps, and difficulties with teacher retention are the key hurdles the next superintendent will be expected to address. Beyond these immediate concerns, the successful candidate will also be tasked with cultivating a positive and inclusive school environment that supports the diverse student body of Prince George's County.

State Senator Joanne Carter, a member of the search committee, emphasized the urgency of the situation. "We're looking for someone who can step into this role and immediately start working on the district's strategic plan," she stated. This highlights the need for a leader not only capable of identifying problems but also of implementing actionable solutions and driving progress from day one. The existing strategic plan, while providing a framework, will likely require reevaluation and adaptation under new leadership to address the current realities facing the district.

Diving Deeper into the Challenges:

• Declining Enrollment: This trend, observed across many districts nationally, is particularly pronounced in Prince George's County. Several factors contribute to this, including out-migration of families, increased competition from charter schools and private institutions, and declining birth rates. The superintendent must develop strategies to attract and retain students, potentially through innovative programming, improved facilities, or enhanced community engagement.
• Achievement Gaps: Despite ongoing efforts, significant achievement gaps persist between different student subgroups within PGCPS. Addressing these inequities requires a multifaceted approach, including targeted interventions, culturally responsive teaching practices, increased access to resources for underserved students, and a commitment to equity in all aspects of the educational system. Data-driven decision making will be crucial in identifying specific areas where support is needed most.
• Teacher Retention: The teaching profession faces nationwide challenges, and PGCPS is not immune. Factors contributing to teacher turnover include low salaries (relative to the cost of living in the region), lack of administrative support, demanding working conditions, and limited opportunities for professional development. The new superintendent will need to prioritize creating a supportive and rewarding environment for teachers, potentially through increased compensation, mentorship programs, and opportunities for leadership roles.

The Importance of Community Input

The MSDE search committee understands that a successful superintendent cannot be imposed from above. Recognizing this, community input is being prioritized throughout the selection process. A series of public forums are planned to gather feedback from parents, educators, students, and other stakeholders. These forums will provide a vital opportunity for community members to voice their concerns, share their vision for the future of PGCPS, and help shape the criteria used to evaluate candidates.

The Prince George's County Board of Education is actively participating in the search alongside the MSDE committee, demonstrating a collaborative approach to finding the right leader. This partnership is essential to ensure that the chosen superintendent aligns with the Board's goals and priorities.

Looking Ahead

The selection process is expected to take several months, with the goal of having a new superintendent in place before the start of the 2026-2027 school year. The committee is seeking a dynamic and experienced educational leader with a proven track record of success. Beyond technical skills and administrative competence, the ideal candidate will possess strong communication skills, a commitment to collaboration, and a genuine passion for serving the students of Prince George's County. The future of PGCPS - and the educational opportunities for tens of thousands of students - hang in the balance.