Cumberland County school board interviews two finalists for director of schools; vote set for Thursday

The Cumberland County Board of Education held interviews with two finalists for director of schools, Dr. Randy (Randy) Shannon and Dr. Nicole (Nicole) Farley, who each presented plans for curriculum, staff development and district communications and answered board members’ questions. Board members said they will deliberate and vote on a selection during the board’s regular meeting on Thursday, then name a negotiating team to finalize a contract.

Both candidates emphasized instructional consistency, stronger communications and leadership development. Dr. Randy Shannon, who described himself as a 30-year educator and career-technical education director, focused on rebuilding community confidence in schools, expanding industry credentials and strengthening relationships between teachers and students. “We’ve got to work to sell ourselves as a school system back to the community,” Shannon said, arguing that reengaging parents and local partners is essential to boosting student motivation and outcomes.

Dr. Nicole Farley, the district’s interim director, highlighted recent operational accomplishments during her interim term — including completing state-required closeout tasks for the 2024–25 year, visiting every school and working on personnel and the budget — and…