February 19, 2026 (Westover, MD) - The Somerset County Board of Education (SCBOE) voted at its February 17, 2026 regular open meeting to appoint Interim Superintendent Mr. W. David Bromwell as Superintendent of Somerset County Public Schools under a four-year contract beginning July 1, 2026.
The Board’s action provides stability and continuity for the school system following recent leadership transitions. Since stepping into the interim role, Mr. Bromwell has focused on strengthening operations, supporting school leaders, and maintaining a clear emphasis on student achievement.
Widely recognized as the most experienced superintendent currently serving in the State of Maryland, Mr. Bromwell brings decades of leadership in public education. His tenure has been marked by a commitment to fiscal responsibility, collaborative governance, and measurable academic growth.
Board Chairman Mr. Matthew Lankford stated, “The Board is confident that Mr. Bromwell’s experience, steady leadership, and results-driven approach position Somerset County Public Schools for continued progress. His deep understanding of Maryland public education, including extensive knowledge of the Blueprint for Maryland’s Future, and his proven record of improving student outcomes give us great confidence in the direction of our system. His familiarity with the Blueprint’s accountability framework and implementation requirements will be critical as we continue aligning our work to state priorities and maximizing resources for students.”
As part of the newly approved contract, the Board structured a performance-based incentive component tied to clearly defined student performance metrics. The bonus structure is designed to reward measurable improvements in student outcomes, including gains in state assessment scores and overall academic achievement.
Chairman Lankford added, “By aligning performance incentives with student achievement metrics, the Board is reinforcing its commitment to accountability and excellence. We believe this structure supports high expectations while recognizing strong leadership.”
Mr. Bromwell expressed appreciation for the Board’s confidence and shared his vision for the future of the school system.
“I am honored by the Board’s trust and grateful for the opportunity to continue serving the students, families, and staff of Somerset County,” Mr. Bromwell said. “Our focus remains clear — ensuring every student has access to high-quality instruction, strong school leadership, and the support necessary to succeed. Together, we will build on our strengths, strengthen academic performance, and position Somerset County Public Schools as a system where educators want to work and families are proud to send their children.”
In addition to the Superintendent’s appointment, the Board of Education previously approved the system’s updated organizational structure in December. During its most recent meetings, the Board finalized associated leadership assignments through formal personnel action approvals to fully implement that structure.
As the system transitions into these finalized roles, Somerset County Public Schools will implement a phased transition plan focused on maintaining stability and continuity during the spring testing window and throughout the remainder of the school year. Leadership will work collaboratively to ensure effective operations, provide appropriate backfill where needed, and support thoughtful onboarding into new responsibilities.
The finalized organizational chart, including leadership assignments and reporting structure, is available on the Somerset County Public Schools website at www.somerset.k12.md.us.
Somerset County Public Schools remains committed to academic excellence, transparent governance, and fostering a positive and supportive environment for students and staff. The Board’s action signals a renewed focus on stability, performance, and long-term success for the community it serves.
Mr. W. David Bromwell was appointed Superintendent of Somerset County Public Schools on February 17, 2026. A veteran education leader with extensive knowledge of Maryland’s Blueprint for the Future, his four-year contract begins July 1, 2026.