Weatherall Neal offered superintendency

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. (WOOD) - The Grand Rapids Public Schools Board of Education has decided to offer Teresa Weatherall Neal, who has been serving as interim superintendent, a long-term superintendent contract.

The decision came during a Monday evening school board meeting at which it voted unanimously to approve Weatherall Neal's six-month evaluation, according to GRPS.

Weatherall Neal earned 95 out of a possible 100 points in the evaluation, GRPS said. She was judged on the criteria of academic achievement, culture, collaboration, professional development, accountability and budgeting process; along with a public survey from students, staff and parents.

-- Read a summary of the evaluation (pdf) --

After approving her evaluation, the board voted to remove Weatherall Neal's interim title and offer her the job of superintendent.

"Teresa Weatherall Neal has proven in just a few short months that she is in fact the right person, at the right time," board President Senita Lenear said in a statement. "Her open, honest, transparent and inclusive leadership has helped to restore faith and hope in the future of our district. The evaluation and action taken today just confirms the positive momentum and alignment that is occurring under Superintendent Weatherall Neal's leadership."

When Weatherall Neal took over for Dr. Bernard Taylor in January, she initially said she was not interested in becoming the permanent superintendent.

Weatherall Neal, who was kept from the meeting by a family emergency, released the following statement:

"I am honored and humbled by the Board's support and endorsement of our work thus far. There is no doubt in my mind that we have the right team and are headed in the right direction. We have a lot of heavy lifting to do, but I am confident that this community is eager and ready for action that builds off the great things happening in GRPS."