Carolina International School Announces New Head of School
The Board of Directors has completed its search for a new Head of School for Carolina International School (CIS). The school’s Board of Directors met during their monthly December meeting and determined that Dr. Paul Bryant will take the helm at Cabarrus County’s first public charter school that focuses on international and environmental curricula. He will begin his role on January 3, 2022.
Dr. Bryant, an educator with almost thirty years of experience, has worked as a teacher, a grant writer, and an administrator. He has expanded the programming, services, and enrollment at five different universities. His work improved freshmen retention rates, streamlined admissions processes, significantly increased the four-year graduation rate, and resulted in successful accreditation processes.
Most recently, Dr. Bryant has served as the school leader for Triad Math and Science Academy in Greensboro, NC. Triad, a public charter school focused on STEM, serves over 1,400 students. At Triad, Bryant increased student enrollment, improved student academic growth by 7%, advanced faculty diversity by over 25%, and accepted over $3M in grant funding.
“The board is looking forward to Dr. Bryant joining the CIS leadership team in order to drive our charter’s mission and vision. His experience and skills are what the school needs to move to the next level of serving our students and our community,” Board Chair Kasi Eagle said.
After the December Board meeting, Dr. Bryant was called about the Board’s decision.
“That’s great news,” Bryant said. “There are so many wonderful things about CIS, and the possibilities are just endless there. I’m looking forward to becoming a member of the team and leading the school into its future.”
The school conducted a thorough search for its Head of School, beginning in September, with the assistance of a search committee comprised of parents, board members, a teacher, and an administrator.
Ms. Donna Harkey came out of a brief retirement to serve as the school’s Interim Head of School, and because of her dedicated hard work, the school operated smoothly throughout the fall. She will work with Dr. Bryant for a brief transition phase before returning to her much-deserved retirement.
“We look forward to Dr. Bryant and Ms. Harkey working together for a smooth transition. With her years of experience and love of CIS, we know that she will share the traditions and relationships that make CIS a place that feels like home,” Eagle said. “Ms. Harkey will always be a cherished member of the Comet team.”
Congratulations to the CIS team and welcome new Head of School Dr Bryant!