New London native Richard Foye will take over as interim superintendent while school officials debate the status of the newly selected candidate whose background and qualifications have come into question.
Terrence Carter was chosen to lead New London Public Schools following a nationwide search, but the state Department of Education has recently asked Carter to withdraw.
Foye's appointment was announced Friday. He'll serve as interim superintendent for the next 90 days.
"We have asked Terrence Carter to withdraw from consideration as New London's next superintendent and believe such a course of action to be in the best interest of the New London community," said spokesperson Kelly Donnelly, in a statement. "The department has also put a hold on the processing of his superintendent credentials pending the results of the local Board of Education's independent investigation."
The New London Board of Education initially planned to sign off on Carter's contract last week. School officials postponed the meeting so board members could "discuss in executive session any concerns and the accusations against Mr. Carter," according to district spokesperson Julianna Hanckel.
The board said it would not make a decision on Carter's status with the school system until after the investigation is complete.
Recent reports indicate that Carter has referred to himself as being a doctor for years, even though he’s not scheduled to receive his Ph.D. until later this month.
Foye will take over as acting superintendent Monday and will be officially appointed interim superintendent during a special Board of Education meeting Wednesday.
It's not his first stint as interim superintendent in New London. He previously held the position during the 2003-2004 school year.
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"I'm happy to be back aboard and serve the students of New London and citizens of my hometown," Foye said Friday.
He also served as principal of Bennie Dover Middle School from 1995-2003, was superintendent of Woodstock Academy from 2004-2009 and served as interim superintendent of Griswold Public Schools in 2009.
The Shipman & Goodwin law firm will conduct the investigation into Carter's background, which should be completed within about three weeks.
Carter has declined to comment on the investigation.
