This work will be embedded in our Strategic Roadmap 2.0, which will guide a more comprehensive, phased approach to system change. At the same time, there are immediate steps we will take now to strengthen our coherence and effectiveness and set us on a path to success for the 2026-27 school year.
With that in mind, I am pleased to announce the following interim leadership appointments, effective May 1:
Mr. Charles (Chuck) Carpenter – Interim Deputy Superintendent of Operations
Chuck has been a steady and trusted leader within DPS since 2008. Currently serving as Chief Financial Officer, he has held multiple roles across finance, school improvement, and charter authorizing. His leadership extends beyond DPS, including chairing the statewide Public School Finance Task Force. Chuck brings a deep understanding of our system and a strong commitment to operational excellence in service of schools.
Dr. Sito Narcisse – Interim Chief of Schools
Dr. Narcisse joins us with deep experience leading school systems across the country. Most recently, he served as Superintendent of East Baton Rouge Parish Schools, where he led significant organizational transformation. His background includes leadership roles in Montgomery County, Prince George’s County, Metro Nashville, DC Public Schools, and Boston. As a former English language learner and the son of Haitian immigrants, he brings a powerful perspective grounded in student experience and system improvement.
I look forward to announcing further appointments of the Interim Deputy Superintendent and Chief of Academics in the near future.
In addition, the Office of Student and Family Empowerment will be restructured from a cabinet-level department to a team within the Office of Schools. I want to thank our two interim leaders of that department, Solicia Lopez and Pat Sandos, for their tireless efforts to support our students and families.
These leadership shifts are not just about roles; they are about strengthening how we function as a system. Clear ownership, aligned supports and a relentless focus on student experience will be critical as we move forward.
In total, this strategic realignment will result in 50 budgeted positions from within our general fund being eliminated from the central office effective July 1. Of the 50 positions that are being eliminated, many are currently vacant or are held by individuals who will be retiring in the coming months. Combined with reduced operational spending in the central office for the 2026-27 school year, these position reductions will result in $8.4 million in total annual savings to the general fund.
Employees whose positions will be eliminated will receive a severance package based on their years of service in DPS and are welcome to apply for current vacancies. Many of our currently vacant positions will only be open internally to DPS staff members to maximize the opportunity for those who have had their positions eliminated to continue their service within DPS.
The decision to reduce staff positions is extremely difficult but necessary as we prioritize putting Students First at a challenging time when we are all experiencing inflated costs and reduced budgets. I deeply recognize the personal and professional challenges these changes bring and thank our impacted staff for all they have done to contribute to the unprecedented student success we have seen this year.
We will continue to share more as our Strategic Roadmap 2.0 develops and as we engage in this next phase of organizational evolution. Thank you for your continued commitment to our students, our schools, and each other.
In collaboration,
Dr. Alex Marrero
Superintendent
