Braveboy Replaces Schools Superintendent

Dr. Shawn Joseph Named As Interim Schools Chief; Search Begins In Fall

In a bold and decisive move, Prince George’s County Executive Aisha Braveboy announced the appointment of Dr. Shawn Joseph as interim superintendent of Prince George’s County Public Schools (PGCPS), ushering in what she described as “a new era of excellence” for one of Maryland’s largest school districts.

The appointment comes just days after the PGCPS Board of Education and the former superintendent mutually agreed to part ways effective June 18, 2025, following several weeks of internal deliberation about the district’s trajectory.

“Moving swiftly and decisively now is critical to ensuring forward momentum in our public schools,” said Braveboy during the official announcement. “This is a pivotal moment for the school system and an opportunity to reimagine what’s possible for our students and families.”

For Dr. Joseph, this appointment marks a homecoming. He previously served as the district’s deputy superintendent for teaching and learning from 2014 to 2016, during which time he played a key role in shaping academic strategies and equity-focused policies. His return, Braveboy emphasized, brings institutional knowledge and a proven commitment to educational equity back to the forefront of district leadership.

Currently a faculty member at Howard University’s School of Education, Joseph serves as an assistant professor of educational leadership and co-director of the AASA/Howard University Urban Superintendents Academy. In this national role, he mentors school leaders across the country, championing reforms in academic performance, student-centered budgeting, and program effectiveness.

His distinguished résumé includes past superintendencies in both the Seaford School District in Delaware and Metro Nashville Public Schools in Tennessee. He also spent 16 years serving students in Montgomery County Public Schools as a teacher, principal, and administrator.

“I’m honored by this appointment from County Executive-elect Braveboy,” said Joseph. “I look forward to working with the Board of Education to ensure that every student — no matter their zip code — has access to a world-class education. This is a moment of real possibilities, and I’m ready to get to work.”

Braveboy, who will take office later this year, praised Joseph as “the right leader at the right time,” citing his national reputation, leadership in mentoring superintendents, and deep ties to the local educational community.

Chairman Branndon Jackson of the PGCPS Board of Education echoed that sentiment, signaling the Board’s readiness to move quickly. “The Board appreciates County Executive-elect Braveboy’s leadership and commitment to public education,” Jackson said. “We look forward to working with Dr. Joseph to improve outcomes for all students.”

Effective immediately, the Board will begin formal contract discussions with Joseph to solidify his interim status and begin setting short- and long-term goals for the district.

Among those applauding the decision was County Council Chair Edward Burroughs III, who brings his own experience as a former member of the school board. “Dr. Joseph returns to PGCPS with a unique leadership perspective and a clear understanding of the system’s strengths and challenges,” Burroughs said. “The Council looks forward to working with him as we optimize resources and finalize the new county budget.”

Joseph’s academic credentials further reinforce his qualifications: a doctorate in educational administration from George Washington University, a master’s in reading education from Johns Hopkins University, and a bachelor’s degree in English education from Lincoln University, the nation’s first degree-granting HBCU.

With Joseph’s appointment, Braveboy is staking an early claim on the direction of education in Prince George’s County—sending a message of urgency, collaboration, and vision for the future.

“This leadership team is ready to hit the ground running,” she said. “Together, we will work to make PGCPS a national model of student success and educational innovation.”