School Board Approves 2023 Leadership Roles, Swears In Newly Elected Members, and Appoints New Director

During the December 2022 regular monthly meeting of the Cumberland County Board of Education,  three individuals took the oath of office, which was administered by the Honorable Cull Jordan III, District Court Judge. Two Board members, Judy Musgrave and Greg West, were re-elected in November. Jacquelyn Brown, who was elected in November, is beginning her first term as a member of the Board.

During the meeting, the Board approved leadership roles for 2023. Deanna Jones, who most recently served as the vice chair, was elected to serve as the chair of the Cumberland County Board of Education. Nathan Warfel was elected to serve as the vice chair of the Board.

“I am honored and thankful to the School Board for believing in me and selecting me to be the new chairperson for 2023,” said Jones. “Our goal is to serve children, and that’s who we’re advocating for.”

The Board also approved Cumberland County Schools (CCS) Superintendent Dr. Marvin Connelly Jr.'s recommendation for the Director of Business Operations position. Beth Gray, who most recently served as the accounting manager for the district, will serve in this new role. Gray began her tenure in 1994 and has served the district in various capacities, including budget analyst and internal auditor. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration (Accounting Concentration) from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.