SUBMITTED By CHEROKEE SCHOOL BOARD
After several constructive discussions regarding the future direction of the Cherokee Central Schools, the CCS Board of Education and Superintendent Walt Swan mutually agreed to end his current employment contract. Swan’s last day at work was June 26. All discussions were amicable and Swan remains in good standing with the Board of Education and CCS.
Walter Swan, Jr., shown addressing Tribal Council last August, is no longer the superintendent of the Cherokee Central Schools. His last day was June 26 after he and the Cherokee School Board decided to end his current employment contract. (SCOTT MCKIE B.P./One Feather)
Swan related he appreciated the opportunity to work with CCS and thanks the community, faculty and students for his time working in the community and with CCS and wishes the best for the faculty, staff and students in the upcoming school year.
Dr. Scott Penland began his role as the CCS Interim Superintendent on Monday, July 8.
“The Board of Education is very excited about his arrival,” School Board officials related.
Dr. Penland recently retired from Clay County Schools after thirty eight years of service. For the last thirty two years, he was the Clay County Schools Superintendent. Dr. Penland has twice been the Western Regional Superintendent of the Year and, in 1996, was the North Carolina Superintendent of the Year. During his tenure, Dr. Penland has had several statewide leadership roles including the Chair of the North Carolina Small Schools Consortium and a member of the Board of Directors for the North Carolina Association of School Administrators. Dr. Penland received a bachelor’s of science degree in Biology, a master’s of arts degree in Administration and an Ed.S degree in Administration; all from Western Carolina University and attended the Superintendent Executive Program at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. He is the recipient of the Order of the Long Leaf Pine, an award given by the Governor of North Carolina to individuals who have a proven record of extraordinary service to the State of North Carolina.
“The Board of Education is focused on the future of our students, staff and faculty. We ask the community and our CCS families to be supportive of the district through this important transition,” said School Board officials.
