The COVID-19 lockdown was a difficult time for schools. It fundamentally changed the way education was handled, and its effects are still not fully understood. What is understood is that it takes a bold person to step into the world of post-pandemic education and try to lead it somewhere better. This is what Superintendent Tricia McManus has strived for and what she is now saying farewell to.
After five years of being in the district, four of which she was superintendent, McManus has declared her intentions to resign at the end of the 2024-2025 school year.
“Thank you for the opportunity to lead the amazing students and staff in this great community I have called home for the past five years. I have enjoyed meeting and serving thousands of students, families, and community members in pursuit of our vision for educational excellence, collaboration, and inclusiveness,” McManus said in a letter to the Board of Education.
Teachers and staff are optimistic for what the change of leadership may bring to the county, hoping for someone with new insights as to how the district should be run.
“She mentioned that she and her family live in Florida, so I’m happy that she gets to finally put career things behind her and the lives of all the pupils that she’s been in charge of, and now she can focus on her family and her pupils,” AP David Small said.
Public opinion on her retirement is highly polarized. Some are praising McManus for reducing chronic absences, increasing access to mental health aid programs such as Wayfinder, and getting involved with school life.
“She was very much a student driven superintendent that was willing to get out into the schools at times. I saw her at a couple different events, which I think is always good for somebody in a position like hers to be active and out seeing what’s actually happening in schools,” math teacher Callie Warren said.
Others, however, blame her for the financial troubles the district is currently facing because of the large bonuses she gave staff, and believe that a change of leadership is what’s best.
“I think it’ll be a nice change. As much as I like her compared to previous superintendents, I think it’s time for a change. I’m hoping that they will bring in someone that will have some fresh ideas and make some changes,” Biology teacher Jennifer Malacane said.
Regardless of whether or not McManus was a net positive for the district, it goes without saying that she has left an indelible mark during her tenure, and whoever succeeds her as superintendent has some big shoes to fill.
