The Board of Education announced today [Thursday, June 17] that it is moving toward the identification of a finalist for superintendent of the Montgomery County Public Schools, pending completion of personnel background reviews. At that time, the Board also will announce the schedule for a series of meetings with representatives from parent, employee, business, and community organizations, as well as a public forum open to the entire community.

In the meantime, Dr. Paul L. Vance has agreed to remain as superintendent of schools on a short-term basis until a new superintendent is appointed and certified by the state. The extension of Dr. Vance's term as superintendent is intended to provide a smooth transition in the leadership of the 128,000 student school system.

"In addition to identifying an outstanding successor to Dr. Vance, we must have the continuity necessary to keep our school system operating at its best," said Reginald Felton, president of the Board of Education. "Dr. Vance has been most gracious in accepting our request to defer his plans and help us through this process."

The extension of Dr. Vance's term coincides with the time needed by the Board to conduct on-site visits and to engage the community in a dialogue with a finalist prior to a final appointment and certification by the state.