Community speakers praise superintendent, fault board as Isle of Wight’s leader says he will not seek another contract

Hundreds of community members, teachers and students addressed the Isle of Wight County School Board on March 12, offering praise for Superintendent Dr. Kramer and urging continued support for the proposed budget, while others criticized the board’s handling of a recent student protest and raised concerns about transparency surrounding leadership changes.

During the public comment period, multiple speakers described Dr. Kramer as a stabilizing force who improved fiscal standing and community engagement. ‘‘Dr. Kramer has supported the students and staff of Isle of Wight County and has not bent the knee to any board in this county,’’ student liaison Cameron Hicks said during student remarks. Several speakers asked the board to be transparent about the cost of the superintendent search and to protect instructional priorities amid leadership change.

Late in the meeting, Dr. Kramer formally announced he will not seek another contract when his current four-year agreement expires June 30, 2026. He framed the decision as a personal choice intended to provide the board time to plan for future leadership while ensuring continuity through the rest of the school year. ‘‘I will not be seeking another contract after my current contract ends on June 30th of this year,’’ he told the board.

Public commenters included teachers and parents who urged the board to prioritize student learning and staff retention in its budgeting decisions. Teacher Jessica Brandon told the board, ‘‘Remember your why’’ and urged members to advocate with the Board of Supervisors for increased local funding to raise teacher pay and support essential services. Others—including speakers who criticized the board’s reaction to a student demonstration at Smithfield High—called for a more open process and protection for student civic expression.

The board did not take formal action on personnel or on questions about Dr. Kramer’s contract during open session; however, it did move to certify closed-session compliance and later approve a personnel report in an action item. Several community speakers asked for more transparency in the upcoming superintendent search process and for clarity on whether closed-session discussions influenced leadership decisions.

What’s next: Dr. Kramer will remain in the superintendent role through June 30, and the board will proceed with any necessary search or transition planning. Citizens asked for clear communication about search costs and process details.