Update: Looney Candidate #3 for Nashville Superintendent

It has been confirmed that Williamson County School superintendent Mike Looney is applying for a position as Metro Nashville Public Schools next Director of Schools.

Looney began serving WCS in 2009, and has previously had his superintendent contract extended by the WCS board. The Williamson County School Board has been considering extending Looney’s current contract again, which right now would end in January 2017.

The following is a statement from PJ Mezera, Chairman of the Williamson County School Board, about Looney’s decision to apply for the MNPS superintendent position.

Statement from Chairman of WCS Board:

“I want to begin by thanking Dr. Looney for his years of service to WCS as our superintendent. Together we have accomplished a great deal and improved the education for the children of Williamson County. There is no question that Dr. Looney is a phenomenal leader and asset to WCS. We believe there is more work to be done and higher goals to reach for WCS and we hope that Dr. Looney will be part of that future and that he will continue to lead our school district.

However, if Dr. Looney decides it is best for him to leave WCS, I want to make it clear to our parents, business leaders and citizens that the greatness of Williamson County Schools does not rest with one man. (And I am confident that Dr. Looney would agree with that statement.). Our greatness is found in our parents, and children, and teachers and community! That is the secret recipe to the phenomenal achievements we see in WCS. And that will not change if Dr. Looney leaves WCS. It is important for the public to remember that a great leader does not produce a great society; but a great society will produce great leaders! WCS is strong and will remain so.”

The list of candidates is being seen by the Metro Nashville Public Schools (MNPS) Board Monday, and interviews for candidates will begin on Thursday. The top candidates for the position will be chosen by July 16 and voted on July 23.

List of Candidates for MNPS Director of Schools:

Candidate #1: John Covington, consultant for Broad Foundation

Candidate #2: Angela Huff, chief of staff Cobb County, Ga.

Candidate #3: Michael Looney, Superintendent of Williamson County Schools

Candidate # 4: Barry Shepherd, retired superintendent of Cabarrus County Schools