Cypress-Fairbanks Independent School District Superintendent Rick Berry has named Pam Wells, associate superintendent for general administration, to serve as the superintendent designee during his extended leave of absence prior to his retirement in June 2004. Mr. Berry announced Wells’ appointment during the December 15 Board of Trustees meeting.

Wells, who has been with CFISD for 24 years, will assume the daily responsibilities of superintendent in addition to her regular duties effective January 5, 2004.She will serve in that capacity while the Board of Trustees conducts a search for Berry’s suc cessor.

“Pam’s high level of expertise, dedication and professionalism gives me confidence that my absence will not leave a ripple in the ongoing progress of the district,” Berry said. “The district’s leadership under her authority has been organized in such a way to avoid interruption of the educational process of our students.”

While he will not be involved in the day-to-day operations of the district for the second semester, Berry will retain his title as CFISD superintendent until his retirement becomes effective June 30, 2004. Berry will be available to the Board for consultation during his leave.

“I am delighted and honored by the confidence that Mr. Berry and the Board has demonstrated by appointing me as superintendent designee,” said Wells. “On behalf of the district, I want to wish him a restful, well-deserved leave and all the best upon his retirement.”

Wells said that, while the district will certainly miss Berry, his leadership has helped to build a strong team of professionals with “a clear sense of our culture and vision.” As superintendent designee, she said she will remain committed to keeping that team on track and focused on student success.

“Change is not easy, but I promise to work very hard to provide a smooth transition to a new superintendent,” said Wells. “I see my primary responsibility to be working with the Board, my colleagues, the principals, staff, parents and community to accomplish the goals we’ve set for this year.”

Trustees praised Berry’s decision to name Wells as superintendent designee. Citing her seven years working along side the superintendent, Board President Bill O’Brien said Wells was the obvious choice to serve during the interim.

“I believe Pam has been a critical component of the success the district has achieved during Mr. Berry’s tenure,” O’Brien said. “I look forward to having her sit to my left during our meetings and watching her lead the district over the next several months.”

Vice President Al Martinez echoed O’Brien’s sentiments, saying, “Mr. Berry is leaving the district in very capable hands.”

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