Harford School Board Makes Decision on New Superintendent

The Harford County Board of Education appointed Barbara P. Canavan to a four-year term as superintendent Monday during its business meeting, according to a statement from Harford County Public Schools.

Canavan has been serving as interim superintendent since July 1, 2013, when former superintendent Robert Tomback departed.

Until her term begins July 1, 2014, Canavan will stay on as interim superintendent.

The school system conducted focus groups and contracted an outside agency to facilitate its search for a new superintendent.

"Feedback gathered from the focus groups, as well as an online public survey, indicated resounding support for Mrs. Canavan, and the board agreed there was no need to continue an expensive and time-consuming search for outside candidates," according to the statement.

“She has dedicated more than 40 years of exemplary service to our school system, and the board and I are completely confident in her ability to move our school system forward," Harford Board of Education President Nancy Reynolds said. "We look forward to continuing to work with her as our superintendent of schools."

Canavan and the board will hold a press conference at 9 a.m. Tuesday at the A. A. Roberty Building in Bel Air to announce the appointment. 

“I am deeply honored to be presented with the privilege of serving the students and the Harford County Public School community,” Canavan said. “I will work diligently to foster a culture of mutual trust and respect among all constituents and community leaders. I vow never to lose sight of the fact that each and every decision, no matter how small, is integral to creating a legacy of opportunity for our children.”

Related: Harford Schools Name 40-Year Veteran as Interim Superintendent