NORFOLK, Va. (WAVY) — The Norfolk School Board is actively seeking a new superintendent following the termination of Dr. Sharon Byrdsong in June. The board voted 4-3 to terminate Dr. Byrdsong’s contract without cause.

To gather community input on the superintendent search, the school board announced Tuesday that it has scheduled two listening sessions in August. These sessions are open to parents, staff, and community members.

Date: August 7, 2025
Time: 6:30 p.m.
Location: Norview High School Auditorium (6501 Chesapeake Blvd.)

Date: August 23, 2025
Time: 10 a.m.          
Location: Booker T. Washington High School Cafeteria (1111 Park Ave.) 

For those unable to attend the listening sessions, a survey is available on the division’s website. This allows community members to provide their feedback and suggestions regarding the new superintendent. There are 11 questions on the survey. NPS said hard copies of the survey will also be available at school board administration offices. There is an Aug. 24 deadline to complete the survey.

“Appointing a new superintendent is one of the most significant duties of the school board, and we are committed to making sure the community is involved every step of the way,” said Sarah DiCalogero, Chair of the School Board.

The Virginia School Boards Association (VBSA) is assisting the board with the search.

It’s a busy time for the Norfolk School Board, which has been tasked with creating a list of at least ten schools to close and consolidate. It was given a deadline of August 1, but as WAVY’s Brett Hall reported earlier this month, the Norfolk School Board Chair indicated they may not meet City Council’s deadline. WAVY is closely following developments and will bring you any updates as the original deadline nears.