Duval County School Board held an impromptu “special meeting” on Wednesday to discuss, if needed, what will happen if Superintendent Dr. Nikolai Vitti accepts a new job.
Dr. Vitti has been named one of three finalists for Detroit Superintendent of Schools.
The primary goal of why Chairman Paula Wright called this board meeting was to address the possibility that Dr. Vitti may take the position in his native Michigan.
We just want the community to understand, if needed, this board is ready. If needed, this board is going to provide the leadership it needs to secure another superintendent, if needed,” Wright said.
Dr. Vitti has led the Duval County Public School District for four years. The board said they’re preparing for what may or may not happen.
Action News Jax spoke with school board member Scott Shine, and thinks Vitti will at least be offered the job.
“Dr. Vitti is a very strong candidate and is a finalist for Detroit," Shine said. "I would not be surprised if he gets an offer. But, it will be his decision."
Shine said Vitti has become fond of the culture and atmosphere of Jacksonville.
“We’ve talked a good bit about this decision, the superintendent and I, he is not going to make a rash decision about moving to another district. Again, this is unique, Detroit is his hometown,” Shine said.
The Detroit School District will make their decision on April 5.
If Vitti takes the new position, the board explained they’ll elect a temporary replacement immediately.
“Statutorily, we would have to name someone and then decide if we are going to do a search, and how we’re going to go through that session,” Wright said.
Board members told us their main focus is having students feel confident and prepared to take the upcoming Florida Student Assessment.
“Our goal is to make sure students are receiving an excellent education every day. We are focusing on that and now we’re just going to take one step at a time,” Wright said.