Cincinnati Public Schools makes Shauna Murphy permanent superintendent in surprise vote

Cincinnati Public Schools Board of Education made Shauna Murphy, who has been serving as interim superintendent since May, the district's permanent superintendent during a surprise vote Monday evening.

Voting on Murphy's appointment was not originally on the school board's agenda. Board members were split on the decision, and Murphy was appointed superintendent for the next two years with a 4-3 vote.

More: Cincinnati parents, teachers oppose district's proposed changes to Montessori learning

Jim Crosset, the board's newest member who replaced Mike Moroski this summer , made the motion to skip a nationwide superintendent search and instead promote Murphy to the role. He made this motion while the board was discussing its superintendent evaluation process.

Teachers and community members have given great feedback about Murphy, Crosset said. Board member Mary Wineberg seconded the motion.

Brandon Craig, another board member, raised concerns about making this decision without going through a proper, open, transparent procedure. For the interim process in May, Craig said, the board only spent 10 minutes with Murphy.

Craig's colleague Ben Lindy agreed. Lindy said Murphy has done "a remarkable job" over the last several months.

"I would encourage her to apply for the permanent position," Lindy said. "I do feel like we have to run a process. And I don't feel comfortable voting without having run a process."

Craig, Lindy and Kendra Mapp voted against Murphy's appointment.

"I hope that you're paying attention," Mapp said, addressing the community. "And I would hope that you all would hold us accountable."

Murphy has more than 35 years of experience in education and most recently served as the district's chief of student and family services. She replaced Iranetta Wright, who resigned in the spring after six unions that contract with the district voted no confidence in her .

More: How Cincinnati 'star' superintendent became victim of district's 'fragmented culture'

"It is a privilege to serve as superintendent and to collaborate with our committed educators, staff and community," Murphy said in a Monday news release. "Together, we will remain focused on fostering academic success by creating a supportive environment that uplifts our educators and motivates our students to reach their highest potential."

Murphy lives in Bond Hill, where she grew up. She attended Ohio University for undergraduate school and then earned two master's degrees in education from Xavier University and the University of Cincinnati. She received her superintendent licensure from the University of Dayton. Before she was in district leadership, Murphy worked at Cincinnati Public Schools schools as elementary and high school principal.

The board also appointed Alesia Smith, formerly chief of schools, as deputy superintendent. Smith also has over 30 years of experience in education and has worked with the district for many years.

"The board is confident in Shauna Murphy and Dr. Alesia Smith's ability to lead CPS during this critical time," Eve Bolton, school board president, said. "Their strong leadership and shared commitment to equity and excellence will ensure the District stays on course. With their deep knowledge of CPS and dedication to our students, staff and community, we know the District is in capable hands as we move forward."

Murphy will lead the district through several upcoming changes, including a possible major overhaul of the district's structure that would move students to different buildings to make way for middle schools. The board intends to vote on this decision in December.