The Milwaukee Board of School Directors approved the contract for the next superintendent of Milwaukee Public Schools, Dr. Brenda Cassellius, in a special meeting Tuesday, March 4. Dr. Cassellius, who was selected by the board in February after an extensive public search process, will begin leading the district on March 15.

“On behalf of the board, I want to express my excitement for this new chapter in our school district,” board President Marva Herndon said. “The board recognizes that a superintendent is not just a position of leadership. It is a position of vision, inspiration, and service, and about ensuring that every child has the opportunity to succeed, to grow, and to thrive.”

“With Dr. Cassellius at the helm, the board is confident that our district will continue to rise to the challenges of an ever-changing educational landscape,” Herndon continued.

The contract approved by the board is for two years, a duration mandated by Wisconsin state law.

“It is with enormous gratitude and optimism that I take on this responsibility,” Cassellius said. “I am eager to get to work, to meet our community, find ways to work together, and to start a new chapter for MPS. I am honored to work with the educators and staff who serve our students each and every day and believe there is no higher professional calling than being an educator. I have great expectations for Milwaukee Public Schools, and I know that through hard work, honest conversations, and a commitment to our students, we will accomplish big things together.”

Cassellius previously served as superintendent of Boston Public Schools and as Commissioner of the Minnesota Department of Education. She has worked at every level of public education, from special education paraprofessional and social studies teacher to academic superintendent for middle schools in Memphis City Schools.

MPS Interim Superintendent Eduardo Galván will assist Cassellius in the transition.

Director Jilly Gokalgandhi directed thanks toward Galván for “serving the kids, the families, the educators of this district probably through one of the toughest times this district has faced. And over the last few months, you have led with extreme composure and kindness and collaboration.”