Wood is acting Wilkes school superintendent | News

The Wilkes County School system is navigating a period of transition following the death of Superintendent Mark Byrd. Byrd was found deceased Friday afternoon in Hays, North Carolina, from an apparent gunshot wound in a vehicle in his garage, according to Wilkes Sheriff Chris Shew. An investigation is ongoing, and an autopsy has been scheduled.

Leadership Transition

Acting Superintendent Named

In the immediate aftermath, Dr. Westley Wood, currently the assistant superintendent of Wilkes County Schools, has been appointed as acting superintendent. This decision was made by consensus of the Wilkes school board, as stated by board chairman Rudy Holbrook. The board will convene at a yet-to-be-determined date to name an interim superintendent who will serve until a permanent replacement for Byrd is selected.

Did You Know? Dr. Westley Wood’s career with Wilkes County Schools spans multiple roles, including math teacher, assistant principal, principal, director of student services, and executive director of personnel and human resources.

Community Impact

Rudy Holbrook described Byrd as “a hardworking and dedicated man for the school system and always put kids first.” A meeting of the school district’s central office administrators is scheduled for Monday in response to Byrd’s death.

Expert Insight: The rapid appointment of an acting superintendent demonstrates the school board’s commitment to maintaining stability and continuity within the district during a difficult time. The process of selecting an interim and then a permanent superintendent will likely be a significant undertaking, requiring careful consideration of the needs of students, staff, and the wider community.

Looking Ahead

The Wilkes County School board could hold a meeting soon to determine the process for selecting an interim superintendent. Following the selection of an interim leader, the board may then begin a more comprehensive search for a permanent superintendent. The timing of these steps is currently unknown. The central office administrators’ meeting on Monday will address immediate operational concerns and begin to outline a path forward.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who is currently leading Wilkes County Schools?

Dr. Westley Wood is serving as the acting superintendent of Wilkes County Schools.

What is the status of the investigation into Mark Byrd’s death?

The Wilkes Sheriff’s Office is continuing its investigation into the death of Mark Byrd, and an autopsy is scheduled.

When will a new, permanent superintendent be named?

The school board will meet at a date and time not yet determined to name an interim superintendent, and subsequently begin the process of choosing a new superintendent.

How will the Wilkes County School system balance the need for stability with the process of finding new leadership?