After his approval, Dr. Stribling addressed the board and thanked them for their trust in him. He said, “The White County community has a proud tradition of supporting our schools, and I can assure you I do not take lightly the responsibility of leading them.” He further stated, “These are great schools, places where students are cared for, and educators are committed, but please understand great cannot be our destination; we have to get better, and we will get better.”Stribling told reporters afterwards that he is ready to step into the new role, “I look forward to leading our schools on a path that makes them even better than they are today. And my guiding principle as superintendent will be to make sure that our students and their best interests come first in every decision that we make, and I can’t wait to serve our community and our kids in White County,” said Stribling.
Dr. Stribling recognized the fact that he wouldn’t be where he was if it hadn’t been for the support and recommendation of current superintendent Dr. Laurie Burkett for him to be assistant superintendent.
Dr. Burkett said she isn’t sure what lies ahead for her after she retires on March 31, but she recognized that the board made the right decision with Stribling. “I think he’s a perfect fit and a perfect next step for our school system. I’m so, so happy with the board and their decision,” said Burkett.
During the meeting, Board of Education Chair Missy Jarrard took time to thank Pioneer RESA for their assistance in the superintendent search.
Stribling will begin his new role as superintendent on April first.
