An Interview with San Diego Superintendent Terry Grier: On New Endeavors

Michael F. Shaughnessy:

1) Terry, you have just taken over as Superintendent of San Diego Public School. How did this come about?
Late last year, I was conducted by the search firm conducing the San Diego Unified School District’s Superintendent search to determine my interest.I had served as Superintendent of the 71,000 student Guilford County School District, Greensboro, NC, for the past eight years.I was in ‘good standing’ with the GCS school board, enjoyed my job, and had many friends in the Guilford County community.After reviewing the San Diego job description and researching the district’s history, challenges, and opportunities, I thought my experiences and background would be a good match.I flew to San Diego and met with the board of education and was impressed with their passion for educating all children to much higher levels.Following an initial interview, the process gained speed. My wife Nancy and I were invited back to a second interview the following week.Two days later, we were notified that SDUSD board members wanted to visit Guilford County the following weekend.Following their visit, we began contract negotiations.

Much more on Terry Grier here.