Dear Members of the Montgomery Community,
Last evening, the Montgomery Board of Education took a significant step in our collective journey toward educational justice and institutional excellence. We are honored to announce the selection of Dr. Zickeyous Byrd as the next Superintendent of Montgomery Public Schools. A three-time Alabama state superintendent and a former MPS educator, Dr. Byrd brings with him not only a deep familiarity with our community but also a proven commitment to equity, transformational leadership, and the full liberation of student potential.
We did not arrive at this decision lightly. We sought a leader who would not simply maintain the status quo but one who would courageously confront systemic inequities, foster collective healing, and elevate our shared vision of a school district where all children thrive. Dr. Byrd is that leader. His calling to serve this district is rooted in purpose, not position—a calling that resonates with our deepest hopes for just and thriving schools.
We must name what we know to be true: these have been challenging times. Our schools, like our nation, have wrestled with division, with moments of distrust, and with the weight of histories too often left unspoken. Yet, as one of my colleagues so powerfully reminded us last night, “a divided house cannot stand.” This is our charge: to become a house united—not in uniformity, but in our shared commitment to excellence, dignity, and love for the children and families we serve.
Let this be the moment where we reimagine what is possible. Let this be the moment we transform our collective pain into collective power. We are Montgomery Public Schools. We are resilient. We are rooted in legacy and driven by the urgent promise of tomorrow. And we will rise—together.
As a Board of Education, we are recommitting ourselves to the highest standards of governance and transparency. We pledge to hold ourselves accountable—not simply to metrics or mandates, but to the sacred trust our community has placed in us. Our path forward will be defined by collaboration, intentionality, and a fierce resolve to ensure every child receives the education they deserve—an education that affirms, uplifts, and liberates.
We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to Ms. Jamie Wilson for her steadfast leadership as Interim Superintendent. Her integrity and dedication during this transitional time have been nothing short of admirable. She will continue in this role until the start of the superintendent. She will return to serve as our Chief of Staff. We thank her for standing in the gap with courage and grace.
As we prepare for this new chapter under Dr. Byrd’s leadership, we will prioritize clear, consistent communication and create space for authentic engagement. Our mission remains steadfast: to unleash the limitless potential of every child in Montgomery Public Schools.
Let us move forward together—in hope, in solidarity, and in the unshakable belief that our children are worthy of our very best.
With Deep Respect and Determination,
Arica Watkins-Smith
President, Montgomery County Board of Education
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