CHARLOTTE, N.C. (News Release) – The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education is pleased to formally announce that Dr. Melissa Balknight has agreed to remain on as the acting superintendent of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools (CMS) as the board conducts its search for a new permanent superintendent of the 2nd largest school district in North Carolina and the 16th in the country.
Prior to Sept. 22, 2026, Dr. Balknight announced her Jan. 1, 2027 retirement. She will remain in the position of acting superintendent beyond this date to ensure stability for the district’s approximately 138,000 students, their families, and the more than 18,000 employees of Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools.
Dr. Melissa Balknight brings more than 30 years of experience in public education, including leadership roles in two of North Carolina’s largest school districts. Her work has focused on aligning people, resources and systems to accelerate student achievement. Under her leadership as Deputy Superintendent, Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools has achieved historic academic gains.
“Dr. Balknight is a leader who can keep Charlotte-Mecklenburg Schools on track to continue year-over-year growth in student achievement,” states Board of Education Chair Gregory “Dee” Rankin.“Her experience and historical knowledge will be invaluable in maintaining stability as the board searches for its next permanent superintendent. The board is grateful for her willingness to stay on to lead the district.”
Key to Dr. Balknight’s success is placing a strong emphasis on engaging families and communities as partners in student success. She recognizes that lasting progress comes from listening to families and creating opportunities that respond to the needs and aspirations of students.
“What I enjoy most about this work is building relationships with our families and community. When we listen to one another and work together, we create stronger schools and better opportunities for every student,” states Dr. Balknight.
While Dr. Balknight leads our schools, the board will be conducting its search for a permanent superintendent. The Charlotte-Mecklenburg Board of Education approved the charter establishing its Superintendent Search Ad Hoc Committee on Sept. 29 to oversee procedural steps needed to advance the search. Community engagement sessions will be held for the community to share the qualities they feel are needed for the district’s next leader to continue delivering Endless Possibilities to our community’s students.
