County Executive Aisha Braveboy Announces Transparent National Search for Next Superintendent of Prince George’s County Public Schools
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
January 23, 2026
Media Contact:
Sharon Taylor
Director of Communications
Office of the County Executive
Cell: 240-354-6853
Email: CEXComms@co.pg.md.us
County Executive Aisha Braveboy Announces Transparent National Search for Next Superintendent of Prince George’s County Public Schools
Largo, MD- Prince George’s County Executive Aisha N. Braveboy today announced the launch of a national search process for the next Superintendent of Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), reaffirming her administration’s commitment to strong educational leadership, transparency, and measurable progress for students and families across the County.
“Public education is the foundation of opportunity, economic mobility, and long-term community stability in Prince George’s County,” said County Executive Braveboy. “This superintendent search will reflect our values, transparency, accountability, equity, and excellence, because our students deserve a school system that prepares them to succeed in college, careers, and life.”
Under the County Executive’s leadership, the search will focus on identifying candidates with a demonstrated record of improving academic outcomes, closing achievement gaps, strengthening operational and fiscal management, and building collaborative relationships with educators, families, and community partners. The next superintendent will be expected to lead with integrity, data-driven decision-making, and an unwavering focus on student success.
The search will be conducted in accordance with Maryland Education Article § 4-201.1 and will follow a transparent, inclusive, and equitable process designed to elevate public trust, center community voices, and attract exceptional educational leaders from across the nation.
Maryland Education Code § 4-201.1 establishes the exclusive process for selecting, appointing, and overseeing the County Superintendent of Prince George’s County Public Schools. According to the law, the County Executive shall select a County Superintendent between February 1 and June 1, and the county board of education shall complete the appointment on or before June 30. The law provides that the County Executive selects the Superintendent from a list of three candidates recommended by a statutorily defined search committee that includes one State Board of Education member appointed by the State Superintendent and two Prince George’s County residents appointed by the Governor.
County Executive Aisha Braveboy announced that she will be transmitting the names of Mr. Gordon Sampson, a civic leader and retired educator and principal within Prince George’s County Public Schools, with more than 30 years of experience in education, and Ms. Octavia Caldwell, a former budget analyst for county government, organizational management consultant, faith leader, and proud parent of two PGCPS Graduates.
“Mr. Sampson and Ms. Caldwell bring deep knowledge of our school system, a strong commitment to service, and trusted community perspectives,” said County Executive Braveboy. “Their experience and dedication will help ensure this process reflects the voices, values, and high expectations of Prince George’s County.”
Board of Education Chair Branndon Jackson stated, “The Board of Education is committed to fulfilling its responsibilities under Maryland law and working collaboratively with County Executive Braveboy throughout the superintendent selection process. In accordance with Maryland Education Article, we look forward to reviewing the County Executive’s selection, negotiating contract terms, and ensuring the appointment reflects the best interests of our students, educators, and families. This process is an important opportunity to strengthen trust, elevate leadership, and position Prince George’s County Public Schools for sustained academic excellence.”
To ensure best practices and broad national outreach, County Executive Braveboy has directed that an independent executive search firm be retained to manage the process. The firm will oversee recruitment, vetting, and stakeholder engagement while protecting the confidentiality of appropriate candidates. The County will provide regular public updates and meaningful opportunities for community input, including forums and stakeholder listening sessions.
“This is a defining moment for Prince George’s County Public Schools,” Braveboy added. “We are committed to selecting a superintendent who understands our community, listens to our families and educators, and is prepared to deliver real, measurable progress for our students.”
Current Interim Superintendent Dr. Shawn Joseph, who was appointed by County Executive Braveboy in June 2025, has an interim term that expires by statute on June 30, 2026. Continuity of leadership will be maintained throughout the search process.
Families, educators, students, and community stakeholders are encouraged to remain actively engaged throughout the superintendent selection process. Additional information regarding the selection criteria and search process will be shared with the search committee in the coming weeks. The public is encouraged to stay informed through updates from the Office of the County Executive.
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