Durham school board unanimously approves second amendment to Superintendent Lewis’s contract

The Durham Public Schools Board of Education unanimously approved a second amendment to Superintendent Anthony Lewis’s contract at its June meeting, concluding a formal evaluation process and earning broad praise from board members.

Board members described the amendment as a signal of confidence after a “rigorous” evaluation. Vice Chair Millicent Rogers moved the motion and another member seconded it; Chair Bettina Umstead called for the vote and members answered in the affirmative. Chair Umstead said the amendment came “at the conclusion of an evaluation process that was rigorous.”

Members commended Lewis for his community presence and responsiveness. One board member said, “he’s really, really truly in the community,” while others praised his focus on increasing academic outcomes, addressing chronic absenteeism, and building a leadership team. Lewis thanked the board, acknowledged the district’s challenges, and described the board’s action as a “loud statement” to staff and students that the work will continue.

The vote closed a segment of the meeting that began as the board amended the agenda to add the contract item. The approval was unanimous; meeting minutes reflect the motion, second, and board assent recorded on the public record.

The board discussed the amendment publicly at the meeting but did not provide the text of the contract changes in the session minutes supplied. The board chair said the amendment follows completion of Lewis’s evaluation and expressed gratitude for his service to Durham Public Schools.

The board moved on to other agenda items after the vote; no further formal actions related to the contract were taken during the public meeting.