BRIDGEPORT, Conn. — A tumultuous academic year continued for Bridgeport Public Schools Wednesday, as the district named an acting superintendent in the wake of Superintendent Dr. Carmela Levy-David’s leave of absence earlier this month.
The school district announced the appointment of Dr. Royce Avery as acting superintendent on Nov. 13. Avery has served as deputy superintendent for the past year and anticipates taking on his new responsibilities by leaning on his team.
“I am honored to step into the role of Acting Superintendent for Bridgeport Public Schools,” Avery said in a release from the district. “Over the past year, I have witnessed the incredible dedication and resilience of our staff, students and community. I am committed to continuing our progress and ensuring that every student has the opportunity to succeed. Thank you for your support and trust.”
According to the district, Avery brings over a decade of experience to the table as a superintendent in various other districts. He has furthered his career in education administration in the city of Bridgeport.
Avery’s expansive background and dedication to education make him well-suited to lead the district during this transitional period, according to Bridgeport Public Schools.
“The Board encourages everyone to extend a warm welcome to Dr. Avery in his new role,” the district said in a statement.
Levy-David’s leave of absence does not come without controversy, after a contingent of people affiliated with the district have been calling for her removal for months.
Several weeks ago, a Bridgeport Education Association survey polling 600 teachers reported that 97% of them lacked confidence in Levy-David’s ability to lead.
Levy-David began her tenure as Bridgeport’s superintendent last June and has a three-year contract. The district’s school board is expected to decide in the immediate future if her contract will be terminated.
----
Dalton Zbierski is a digital content producer and writer at FOX61 News. He can be reached at dzbierski@FOX61.com.
----
Do you have a story idea or something on your mind you want to share? We want to hear from you! Email us at newstips@fox61.com.
----
HERE ARE MORE WAYS TO GET FOX61 NEWS
Download the FOX61 News APP
iTunes: Click here to download
Google Play: Click here to download
Stream Live on ROKU: Add the channel from the ROKU store or by searching FOX61.
Steam Live on FIRE TV: Search ‘FOX61’ and click ‘Get’ to download.
