The frontrunner for the Buffalo Schools Superintendent position will be meeting with the public Thursday evening. Dr. Kriner Cash will participate in an open question and answer session at the Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts at 6:15 p.m. WBFO's Focus on Education Reporter Eileen Buckley will be one of two moderators for the event.
The former Memphis City School leader was interviewed by the city school board August 4th after the State Education Commissioner recommending hiring Cash. Board members who participated in the interview with Cash emerged pleased and encouraged with Cash's experience.
"He comes with the high regard of the commissioner who recommended him to us, so we are hoping he will have the ability to connect with the state participially with the receivership issue and possible resources," said James Sampson, President, Buffalo Board of Education President.
But Sampson said before making final hiring decision, the next step would be to introduce him to the community. Several others were interviewed for this top spot, but it appears most board members are ready to hire Cash.
WBFO asked Sampson about the other candidates who were interviewed for the post and have not met with the public.
"He is the person at this point that the board is paying attention to," responded Sampson.
Sampson said Cash has 'experience' that the district needs. The next superintendent must decide how to turn around 25-schools now under receivership. Five are persistently struggling schools. Even board member Carl Paladino told WBFO News he is 'comfortable' with Cash, if he gives assurances on school reforms.
Cash led the Memphis District over four years, the largest district in Tennessee.
WGRZ Television Reporter Claudine Ewing will join Buckley in asking Cash questions Thursday. The public will also have a chance to submit questions. The session begins at 6:15 p.m. Prior to meeting Cash, the district will first host a public session on what receivership means for the city district starting at 5:30 p.m. at the Buffalo Academy for the Visual and Performing Arts on Masten Avenue.
Last week Cash refused to conduct reporter interviews saying he was asked by the school board not to speak to the media. Reporters chased Cash as he existed out of City Hall downtown to try and ask him about wanting to come to Buffalo.
"It's up the board now. Let them do their work," said Cash. Cash did tell WBFO News he believes he's 'uniquely qualified' for the job.
