Board appoints interim superintendent and hires Dr. Matthew Cheeseman as next superintendent
Summary
The board voted to appoint Dr. Stuart T. Blunt as interim superintendent for January 2026 and elected Dr. Matthew F. Cheeseman as superintendent effective Feb. 1, 2026 through June 30, 2029; both motions passed unanimously and Dr. Cheeseman addressed the board.
The Craven County Schools Board of Education approved two personnel actions for district leadership. First, the board moved to elect Dr. Stuart T. Blunt as interim superintendent for Jan. 1–31, 2026 under a written interim-administrator contract; Miss Davis made the motion, Miss Spies seconded, and the board approved unanimously by roll call.
Later in the meeting the board moved to elect Dr. Matthew F. Cheeseman as superintendent for a contract term beginning Feb. 1, 2026 and continuing through June 30, 2029. Miss Spies moved and Miss Davis seconded the motion. The roll-call vote was unanimous.
Dr. Cheeseman addressed the attendees, thanking the board and describing his commitment to community engagement, supporting principals and teachers, and being accessible to schools. The chair welcomed Dr. Cheeseman and invited the public to meet him after the meeting.
Board members expressed appreciation for interim leaders and staff who supported the district through transition months. The approvals complete the district’s leadership transition announced during the meeting.
