Alamance-Burlington School System appoints new superintendent

The Alamance-Burlington School System Board of Education voted 6-1 to approve Aaron Fleming as the district's next superintendent Monday afternoon.

Fleming is currently the superintendent of Harnett County Schools, a role he’s held for the last seven years. He’s also been an agricultural education teacher, a policy advisor and was named the Sandhills Regional Superintendent of the Year twice in a row. 

Vice Chair Donna Davis Westbrooks was the lone vote against him, due to the fact that he’s never been a principal. 

“As the only educator on this board, maybe I am alone in my thoughts and beliefs, but I do feel that principals and even our assistant principals, need to have a superintendent who has had that same experience," she said.

The search for a new superintendent began back in March when Dain Butler resigned from the position. The district has been struggling financially and has a projected deficit of $2.4 million. 

Board Member Ryan Bowden said he’s looking forward to starting fresh with new leadership. 

"Today, we're hitting the reset button," he said. "I ask our community partners, county commissioners, business partners, and everyone who represents ABSS, hit that same reset button with us today, and let's move forward together.”

Fleming acknowledged that there would be a lot of work ahead, and said the appointment was an honor.

“I'm ready to work, as I'll be visiting with you over the next several weeks before I start in this role," Fleming said. "I'm excited to meet everyone and hear your desires for our schools and our students.”

Fleming will assume the role on September 18. 

Amy Diaz covers education for WFDD in partnership with Report For America. You can follow her on Twitter at @amydiaze.