After months of searching for its next leader, the Orange County Schools system made it formal choice on Monday.

The Orange County Board of Education officially selected Danielle Jones as its next superintendent during a specially-called meeting. The board unanimously approved her hiring and approved her contract.

Jones is the assistant superintendent for all middle schools in the Durham Public Schools system, starting at the district in 2018 as a leadership coach and principal supervisor. Prior to that, she served as a principal and assistant principal in Franklin County Schools — at one point, earning the distinction of being a finalist for Franklin County’s Principal of the Year. She also taught in the Wake County Public School System and began her career as a middle school teacher in Youngsville, N.C.

Board of Education Chair Anne Purcell read a statement about its choice of Jones before holding the vote to approve her hire.

“After a meticulous review process that included applications from a diverse pool of twenty-six highly qualified candidates from nine different states and territories,” Purcell said, “the Board of Education enthusiastically chose Dr. Jones based on her extensive track record of success, her exemplary leadership, and her unwavering dedication to students and staff. The Board is confident that Dr. Jones’s vision and expertise will propel the district to new heights of achievement.”

Jones, who was not on the call for the virtual meeting, shared a statement through the school district on her hiring.

“I am grateful for the opportunity to serve as superintendent of Orange County Schools and look forward to becoming an active member of the community,” she wrote. “I am excited to partner with the board and community to ensure the success and well-being of all students and staff.”

The superintendent of Durham Public Schools, Pascal Mubenga, also shared his praise and congratulations to Jones on social media Monday afternoon.

“Dr. Jones is a data driven, laser focused leader with a hands on approach,” his account wrote. “She will work well with the Board, staff, families, and community. Leadership matters!”

Jones’ arrival marks the district’s latest permanent superintendent after her predecessor — Monique Felder — reached an agreement with the school board in July to end her contract and leave Orange County Schools. Felder served just less than four years in the position and oversaw academic growth in both the 2021-22 and 2022-23 school years following the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.

In its release on Monday following Jones’ hiring, Orange County Schools pointed to academic gains made at schools under her supervision as an example of her leadership. In 2023, Durham Public Schools reported increased proficiency levels for all 12 middle schools and half placed in the top 20 percent of schools in North Carolina for their academic growth.

Jones is a three-time graduate from North Carolina State University, where she earned her bachelor’s degree in business management, her master’s degree in school administration, and a doctorate in education administration and supervision. Beyond that, she also served four years in the U.S. Air Force.

According to the district’s contract, Jones will receive an annual salary of $190,000 and is under contract through June 30, 2027. Both her salary and the length of the contract can be updated by the Board of Education.

The Orange County Schools district and Board of Education will hold a reception after its meeting on January 8 to welcome Jones and provide the public opportunities to meet with the new superintendent. Jones’ first official day leading the school system is set for February 1.

 

Photo via Orange County Schools.

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