Bluefield Daily Telegraph, Bluefield, WV
May 11, 2012
Spencer hired as McDowell County schools superintendent
By GREG JORDAN
Bluefield Daily Telegraph

WELCH — — When the month of July arrives, the McDowell County school system’s administrators, teachers and students will know that they will have a new superintendent.

The West Virginia Board of Education announced Thursday that Nelson Spencer, an educator who has held several posts including assistant superintendent in Raleigh County, will take charge in McDowell County in July.

“I am excited by this opportunity,” Spencer said in Thursday’s announcement. “I have big shoes to fill, but I am confident the transition will be smooth. I really look forward to working with the educators, parents and students of McDowell County.”

Spencer is replacing Jim Brown as county superintendent. Brown recently accepted a new position as Raleigh County’s superintendent of schools. Spencer currently serves as a state school improvement specialist focusing on McDowell County’s schools. Besides being a former assistant superintendent, Spencer was a director of secondary schools, director of federal programs, principal, assistant principal and teacher while working in Raleigh County.

Brown’s departure will make Spencer McDowell County’s fifth state-appointed school superintendent since the state board of education took over the county’s school system in 2001. Brown was appointed by the state in 2010 after former Superintendent Suzette Cook accepted a position as a Title I school improvement coordinator with the state education department. Cook was appointed in 2007, replacing Dr. Mark Manchin, who is now the executive director of the school building authority.

When the state board of education took control of McDowell County Schools in 2001, authorities cited low test scores, deteriorating buildings and large numbers of uncertified teachers, according to Thursday’s press release. The state board immediately restricted the school board’s authority in the expenditure of money, the employment and dismissal of personnel, the operation of the school calendar, and the establishment of instructional practices and rules.

Under state guidance, McDowell County has made major changes in curriculum and finances, state education officials said. Advanced Placement classes have been added to all the county’s high schools, a new auditorium was dedicated at Mount View Middle/High School and technology improvements continue. The county has also opened a new elementary school and is building a new high school. Improvement plans also include intensive professional development to enhance student performance.�