CUMBERLAND CO., Tenn. – In a split decision on Thursday, the Cumberland County Board of Education voted 5-4 not to renew the contract of William Stepp, the district’s director of schools. Stepp, who took on the role in 2022, had served as an educator in Tennessee for 25 years.
The decision has sparked debate within the community, with several parents and local residents speaking out in support of Stepp during the board meeting. Many praised his efforts in promoting the schools and bolstering their public image.
“Mr. Stepp is the fourth director of schools in 11 years. Real good consistency here, how many more do we have to go through?” one speaker asked, advocating for stability in leadership. “Mr. Stepp is the person who is getting the job done.”
Despite the public support, some board members expressed concerns about internal feedback from teachers and staff. One board member acknowledged Stepp’s success in improving the district’s public perception but stated that negative reports from within the schools influenced his decision to vote against renewing the contract.
This marks the latest leadership change in Cumberland County schools, where turnover has been a recurring issue in recent years. Stepp’s departure will add to the list of changes in the district, which has had four directors of schools in just over a decade.
