Board Extends Guilford County Schools Superintendent Contreras' Contract

The Guilford County School Board has extended the contract of Superintendent Sharon Contreras, but it was a close vote.

Contreras was given the maximum extension allowed by state law, through the end of June 2023.

“I am incredibly proud of our school district and the accomplishments of our students and staff,” Contreras says in a release after Saturday's decision. “This is the first time in nearly a decade that student performance has improved in every subject in every grade level and that's due to the hard work of everyone involved.”

The High Point Enterprise reports that there was a split on the board. Five Democrats voted in favor of the extension, while three Republicans and one Democrat — outgoing member Darlene Garrett — voted against it.

The decision took place at a weekend retreat. It came upon completion of Contreras' annual evaluation. 

Board Chairwoman Deena Hayes praised Contreras' efforts to improve instruction and reduce inequality in the schools.

“The partnerships formed to help move the district forward are appreciated,” she says. “Fiscal management remains strong and the board and superintendent continue to focus on student safety.” continued Hayes.

Contreas has been the superintendent of schools in Guilford County since 2016.