CLEVELAND — Cleveland Metropolitan School District held three public forums this week to hear opinions on the search for a new CEO.

What You Need To Know

  • Current CMSD CEO Eric Gordon is retiring following the school year 

  • Gordon has held the position for 12 years 

  • CMSD has brought in an advisory group to assist the district in the search for a replacement

  • The group has already spoken to families, staff and students and will report their findings to the school board

"My hope is to really have someone in over our kids that really cares, number one,” said Synthia Ervin, a parent in the district.

She is hoping her opinion can be heard as the search continues for a new CEO.

“My children's education is very important," she said. "I take high respect of that and to be a part of the decisions that is being made.”

In September of last year, current CEO Eric Gordon announced he will be stepping down following the 2022-23 school year after holding the position for 12 years. 

CMSD has appointed an advisory group to help hear the opinions of students, staff and parents.

“I really would like to see that there are goals, goals for our children, better opportunities, maybe even bringing some things back that we used to have when I went to school," Ervin said.

With 12 family members in the district, and some with special needs, Ervin hopes the programs in place now will continue.

“I have a lot of gifted children, so I would love to see that program last," she said.

Also top of mind for many parents is safety in the classroom.

“Because if a child feels safe, then they'll come,” Ervin said. 

Monica Santana Rosen, CEO of the Alma Advisory Group, said they have spoken to thousands of parents, students and staff and will share their findings with the school board.

“I think CEO Eric Gordon is leaving behind a tremendous legacy and it's our responsibility to ensure that we find a leader who can build on his successes and bring the district through to their next chapter,” Rosen said. 

The advisory group will present their findings to the school board on Tuesday, Feb. 7.