New PPS Superintendent

Carole Smith is the new superintendent for Portland Public Schools.

Like many others I've spoken to, I am cautious and optimistic. I have to ask myself: is it better to be optimistic or cynical? And I am not sure of the answer.

Smith is a local hire, with longtime connections to the district. That is a big plus. It seems logical that someone from Portland with experience in Portland may care more about the good of the schools in Portland, and not just her resume.

On the other hand, she is a former underling of Vicki Phillips. I don't think I am alone in my overall negative assessment of Phillips' time as superintendent. After working so closely with Phillips, is it likely that Smith will keep the damage coming? I hope not.

For now, I am choosing to remain positive about the new superintendent. I hope that I don't end up eating my words.

Thanks to those of you who have emailed your advice, thoughts, and concerns to me. Please keep it coming! I really believe that "my" positions should not be solely mine, they should be based those of the community and PPS stakeholders.

Lisa