New Hanover school board chairman calls decision to fire superintendent 'a difficult one'

The New Hanover Board of Education’s chairman has responded regarding the board's decision to fire the district's superintendent .

The school board voted in a 5-0 vote during their July regular meeting to unilaterally terminate Charles Foust’s contract, which was extended in August 2023 and was set to last until June 30, 2027.

The decision came after a closed session without two board members, Stephanie Kraybill and Josie Barnhart, present.

Board Chairman Pete Wildeboer wrote in a statement released by the district Monday that because the firing of Foust was a personnel matter, state law restricts the information the board is allowed to disclose.

"However, we can tell you that this decision was not undertaken lightly, and in light of our current budgetary situation, it was a difficult one," Wildeboer wrote.

The board members present for the decision decided that a change in leadership was necessary to put the district back on track to accomplish the district's goals for academic progress as well as college and career readiness, Wildeboer said.

He said no local funds appropriated for teachers, textbooks, classroom materials, supplies or equipment will be used or transferred to pay for any severance or other separation expenses related to the decision.

At the close of the 2023-24 fiscal year on June 30, Wildeboer said, it was determined at that time that the school system had sufficient fund balance that could be used for the purpose of paying the year of salary the board has to pay Foust.

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"We would like to thank Dr. Foust for his service to the NHCS system over the past few years and wish him well in his future endeavors," Wildeboer concluded.

The school board appointed Christopher Barnes, the assistant superintendent of human resources, to serve as acting superintendent. In a statement from the district, Barnes said he is committed to ensuring a smooth transition while the district searches for a new superintendent.

“My priority is to provide stability and continuity for our students, staff, and community while we work together to move forward,” Barnes said.

This article originally appeared on Wilmington StarNews: New Hanover school board chairman calls decision to fire superintendent 'a difficult one'