The Norfolk City Public School Board made a significant decision during its meeting on June 11, 2025, by appointing Dr. James Pohl as the interim superintendent. This appointment comes in the wake of the previous superintendent's departure, effective the same day. The board unanimously passed the resolution to appoint Dr. Pohl, who accepted the role immediately, signaling a commitment to maintaining leadership stability within the school district.

The resolution outlines that Dr. Pohl will assume all powers and responsibilities associated with the superintendent position. The board also indicated that they would negotiate a contract detailing his compensation and prerequisites for the role. Board members expressed their support for Dr. Pohl, emphasizing the importance of strong leadership as the district navigates upcoming challenges.

In addition to the appointment, the meeting included discussions about agenda items related to student excellence and school board goals. However, there was some confusion regarding the agenda, particularly concerning the removal of certain items that were not addressed as planned. Board members engaged in a back-and-forth dialogue to clarify the status of these items, highlighting the complexities of managing meeting agendas.

The appointment of Dr. Pohl is seen as a crucial step for Norfolk Public Schools as it seeks to ensure continuity and effective leadership during a transitional period. The board's commitment to negotiating a contract promptly suggests a proactive approach to solidifying Dr. Pohl's role and responsibilities moving forward.