WILMINGTON, N.C. (WECT) – The search continues in one school district for a new leader.

New Hanover County Schools is searching for an interim and permanent superintendent.

Until then, Dr. Christopher Barnes is the acting superintendent. The position became vacant after the school board abruptly fired Dr. Charles Foust earlier this month.

Dr. Foust was ousted after a climate survey revealed employees felt “unsupported by district leadership.”

Now, Dr. Barnes is speaking out about his priorities as the district prepares for the upcoming school year.

Dr. Barnes says his priorities are clear: the students, staffing the schools, and making sure he is listening to his employees and parents.

Though he’s been the acting superintendent for less than a month, he has over 20 years of experience working in education, 10 of which he was a principal.

“I think the most important thing to remember is that we’re here for kids,” said Dr. Barnes.

Dr. Barnes says he’s also focusing on listening.

“If you’re asking me what my main focus is, it’s about listening to staff, to parents, to stakeholders, and making sure that we’re taking time to make well-informed decisions that are thought out,” said Dr. Barnes.

With school just a few weeks away, there is a lot on Dr. Barnes’ plate, but he wants to assure the community he is prepared.

“We’ve got this. We know how to open school, we know how to take care of kids,” said Dr. Barnes.

Dr. Barnes’ takeover as acting superintendent comes as the district faces budget cuts. The exact number of positions has not been disclosed.

“We all felt that reduction. There’s not a department or school that didn’t feel that. However, we’re working to make sure we’re making well-thought-out decisions,” said Dr. Barnes. “We do know that every person who is in good standing and wants to work in New Hanover County Schools can still work with us.”

Currently, 19 of the schools in New Hanover County are fully staffed. Dr. Barnes is now working to staff the rest.

“I want [parents] to feel confident that we’ve got this, that we’re moving in the right direction and there’ll be people for [their] students when they come to school,” said Dr. Barnes.

Barnes also acknowledged that the past few months haven’t been easy.

“We know this has been a long, tough summer for everybody. We’re looking forward to the normalcy of starting school again, and getting kids back and getting them educated and rolling forward,” said Dr. Barnes.

The acting superintendent, ultimately, is hoping to start the new academic year on the right foot.

WECT asked Dr. Barnes if he’s applied for the interim position or the permanent one. He wouldn’t say but said he trusts the board will make what they think is the best decision.

As for when someone will step into the role permanently, that’s unknown.

Dr. Barnes and school board members say the board is taking its time to ensure they are selecting a superintendent who meets its criteria and has the right set of skills.

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