DUVAL COUNTY, Fla. — A new Duval County Public Schools superintendent was sworn in Tuesday afternoon.
Dr. Christopher Bernier was sworn in as superintendent around 3 p.m. in front of the Duval County School Board. The school board officially voted 6-1 in favor of the contract for Bernier in mid-June.
During the ceremony, Bernier said he is aware of the challenges the district faces including budget gaps, enrollment issues and problems with employee ethical behavior and that difficult decisions will have to be made regarding the future of schools.
When asked about his top three goals for DCPS he said he's focused on increasing student enrollment, making decisions surrounding the district's master facility plan and improving student test scores.
“You’re going to see a plan rolled out in the next two weeks regarding an entry plan. It includes town halls, community meetings, focus groups, meeting with different groups of employees, meeting with elected officials. It’s really going to be all hands on deck," Bernier said.
Jacobie Edwards is a teacher at Jean Ribault High School, a school under construction on Jacksonville’s Northside. His message for the new superintendent-
“We need more morale and morale also comes with money as well so, resources are the number one thing that a school like Ribault needs," Edwards said.
Bernier is taking the lead of a district that had three superintendents since 2007. His predecessor retired early after controversy about teacher misconduct within the district. Bernier says he recognizes that integrity needs to be prioritized under his leadership.
“The employees need to behave in a professional manner and I will make it a priority that they do and if they don’t, that they are dealt with appropriately," Dr. Bernier said.
Another goal, making decisions about consolidation and closing of DCPS schools as the district faces a budget shortfall.
“We have to make some decisions about how we can go ahead and continue to support our communities that want to keep their school but in a way that makes financial sense for the district," Dr. Bernier said.
Some parents and teachers have spoken out against consolidation, and many are worried about its impact on students.
Edwards believes if the district moves forward with closures, it could put an extra burden on teachers.
“So you’re seeing a high ratio between students and teachers, so if you're going to do that, there has to be extra training as well as extra salary support to help those in need," Edwards said.