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Community speakers urge Bridgeport Board to appoint Dr. Royce Avery as permanent superintendent
Summary
More than a dozen parents, educators and community leaders told the Bridgeport Board of Education they support appointing Dr. Royce Avery as permanent superintendent, crediting him with improving morale, partnership-building and student-focused leadership amid years of turnover.
Bridgeport — More than a dozen parents, educators and community leaders urged the Bridgeport Board of Education to appoint Dr. Royce Avery as the district's permanent superintendent, saying his inclusive style and steady presence have begun to restore trust after years of leadership turnover.
Edith Boyle, president and CEO of LifeBridge Community Services, told the board that under Dr. Avery the nonprofit has seen fewer behavioral incidents and stronger collaboration between schools and behavioral-health partners. "Dr. Avery has been a true partner. He listens, he engages, and he brings people to the table across systems," Boyle said.
Several speakers said stability matters after a decade of turnover in the district leadership. "Our kids don't need another restart," parent Jess Resto said. "They need you to finally get something right." John Ramos, principal of Interdistrict Discovery Magnet School, added: "Dr. Avery shows up. When we have events, if I extend the invitation to Dr. Avery, he'll be there."
The public remarks came as the board discussed a March 31 letter from the Connecticut State Department of Education prompting the district to start a superintendent search by selecting a search firm by June 1. Some members said the state was improperly pressing the district. "Let us do our jobs," board member Mr. Sacalovic said in response to the letter, arguing the board should be allowed to pursue options that preserve stability.
Board staff and speakers stressed that the choice has practical consequences: supporters said a multi-year or permanent appointment would prevent another disruptive transition and protect recent gains in academics and school climate. Opponents and some board members emphasized the need to follow state direction and the formal search process.
Procedurally, the board moved into executive session later in the meeting to receive legal advice about the superintendent's employment in response to the state correspondence; the board reported no public action after returning from executive session.
The next procedural step is unresolved: board members discussed offering Dr. Avery a short contract while conducting a search, complying with the state's timeline, or pursuing a permanent appointment. The board will take those governance decisions in upcoming committee meetings and public sessions.
