Veteran educator to oversee curriculum and instruction
September 11, 2003 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CONTACT: Hank Hurd, Associate Superintendent for Administrative Services 560-2504 DURHAM—Dr. Carl E. Harris, Superintendent of Franklin County Schools, has been named Assistant Superintendent of Curriculum and Instruction for Durham Public Schools. He replaces Dr. Janice Davis, who has accepted a position as Deputy Superintendent with the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction. Dr. Harris has served as Superintendent of Franklin County Schools since 1999, where he was instrumental in significant increases in student achievement for all ethnic groups. He also established the county’s first magnet school. Prior to his tenure as Superintendent, Dr. Harris served as Associate Superintendent in Franklin for two years and as Assistant Superintendent for three years. He was a Central Office Special Assistant in the Wake County Public School System for two years, where he oversaw student services. He was also a principal at the elementary and middle school levels, and an assistant principal at the high school level, for a number of years. For the 2002-03 school year, eight of 14 schools in Franklin County were designated Schools of Distinction by the state ABCs of Accountability program. In addition, all 14 schools either met or exceeded their expected growth goals. “Durham Public Schools has gained a statewide reputation as moving quickly ahead with increased student achievement for all students, and I very much look forward to contributing to that effort,” said Dr. Harris. “This is a fantastic opportunity to share my expertise toward building on the accomplishments that have been realized.” Dr. Harris earned a doctorate degree in Education Administration from North Carolina State University, where he currently serves as adjunct professor. He also holds a Master of Arts in Education, a Master of Administration, and an Education Specialist degree in Administration and Supervision from East Carolina University, along with a B.S. in Health and Physical Education from Southwest State University. He is a former Franklin County Schools Principal of the Year and is a recent recipient of the Franklin County Black Legend Award. He was also named 2002 Outstanding Administrator in Gifted Education for the state of North Carolina. In 2002, Dr. Harris was named a Broad Center Fellow, one of 23 professionals from across the nation who completed the inaugural class of the Urban Superintendents Academy, sponsored by the Broad Foundation in Los Angeles. The Academy is a rigorous, 10-month executive management course designed to prepare leaders from inside and outside the education sector to become successful urban superintendents. “Dr. Harris’ strong record in public education, his philosophies and accomplishments beautifully align with the academic goals of Durham Public Schools. He has produced excellent results in increased student achievement in Franklin County,” said Superintendent Ann T. Denlinger. “We welcome him and look forward to his leadership as we continue our work. We have had great success in raising the achievement levels of all students and expect to continue that trend. Dr. Harris’ addition to our team will further enhance our success.” ###
