The Madison Metropolitan Board of Education announced Friday that it has selected Dr. Jennifer Cheatham as Superintendent of Schools, pending successful contract negotiations.
“Jennifer Cheatham is a visionary leader with an excellent track record on narrowing the achievement gap,” Board President James Howard said. “She is passionate and determined while being collaborative and inclusive. She is an excellent choice for our district and will take MMSD where it needs to go.”
“I look forward to working together to ensure that every child attends a thriving school that prepares them for college and career,” said Cheatham. “I enjoyed the opportunity to answer important and thoughtful questions from the public, and I look forward to working for a community that cares so deeply about public education.”
Cheatham is currently the Chief of Instruction for Chicago Public Schools. She has also worked as a Chief Area Officer for Chicago Public Schools, the Executive Director of Curriculum and Instruction for San Diego City Schools, and a coach and professional developer for the Bay Area School Reform Collaborative. Cheatham also served as a teacher in the Newark Unified School District.
On Thursday, Cheatham had a final interview with the Board, met with district staff, visited a school and participated in a community forum.