Whitney Oakley named Guilford County Schools superintendent

The Guilford County Schools Board of Education voted to approve Whitney Oakley as the new district superintendent Wednesday night. 

Oakley brings more than 20 years of educational experience to the role, as well as what she says is a distinctive perspective. 

“Guilford County Schools is a very special place for me, and I know it is for you, too,” she said at the Board of Education meeting on Aug. 31. “It is where I decided to raise my family and dedicate my career. Having grown up in Guilford County and now a parent to two GCS students, I have a unique vantage point of where we have been, where we are today, and where I see us headed in the future. “

Oakley was raised in Greensboro and attended Guilford County Schools from kindergarten to high school. Since 2012, she served the district in a variety of leadership roles including acting superintendent as of July. 

The Board of Education voted 8 to 1 to approve her appointment. Oakley was sworn in by Henry Frye, the first African American chief justice of the North Carolina Supreme Court. 

Board Chair Deena Hayes called Oakley a “homegrown leader,” and said it was an honor to have her as the district superintendent. 

“As we've seen throughout her tenure with Guilford County Schools, Dr. Oakley is an engaging and inclusive leader who values the voices of others and advocates for their support in improving the lives of our students,” Hayes said. “As a former teacher, principal, and current GCS parent, she understands the needs of our students and families and is committed to serving them in ways that will lead to transformational change for our community.”

Oakley said that in the coming days, she will be launching a series of community conversations with families, educators, and community leaders to discuss their visions for the district. 

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