Montgomery mayor says he has discussed school challenges with Dr. Byrd and supports review of the city school system

Mayor (unnamed) said he met with “Dr. Byrd” earlier in the summer and discussed the school system’s needs and leadership. He said Dr. Byrd shared elements of his vision for the schools and that the meeting was “very positive.” The mayor said the city has raised concerns including chronic absenteeism, curriculum and the availability of certified teachers and that Dr. Byrd committed to look at those areas.

The mayor said the city is considering a review of a city school system, which he characterized as “not done lightly.” He said the purpose of that review would be to identify what is needed for stronger leadership, participation and results in education. He emphasized the link between educational outcomes and economic opportunity, saying the entire community must be engaged: students, teachers, parents and caregivers.

The mayor did not specify the scope, timeline, methodology or legal mechanism for a school system review. He said only that the city has “talked to a few groups” about the possibility and that any review would aim to improve reading and math scores and reduce chronic absenteeism.

Ending: The mayor called for continued engagement from educators, parents and community organizations to support consistent student attendance and performance but did not provide a specific next step or formal action to begin a review during this meeting.