Leading with Clarity, Strategy and Influence:

Essentials for New Central Office Leaders

This professional development session offers district-level leaders the opportunity to learn directly from Dr. Marvin Connelly, Former Superintendent of Cumberland County Schools. Drawing on his experience leading one of North Carolina’s largest districts, Dr. Connelly will share practical insights and strategies to help leaders navigate complex systems, drive innovation, and strengthen their impact across the district.

These sessions will focus on leadership and development in the following areas:

  • Learn how to better navigate the micropolitical and macropolitical aspect of being a district leader

  • Working and Communicating appropriately and effectively with Board of Education members

  • Understanding the need for a systemic view when making decisions and the impact of those decisions on all schools and the district overall

  • The criticality of collaboration and interdepartmental communication

Central Office Leaders

Meeting Dates and Locations:

Location:

Sandhills Community College
3395 Airport Road
Pinehurst, NC 28374

9:00 AM - 12:00 PM

Dates:

  • Wednesday, October 1, 2025

  • Wednesday, October 22, 2025

  • Wednesday, January 14, 2026

  • Wednesday, February 25, 2026

  • Wednesday, March 25, 2026


Presenter: Dr. Marvin Connelly, former Superintendent of Cumberland County Schools

Dr. Marvin Connelly, Jr., has dedicated over 34 years of exemplary service to public education in North Carolina, combining visionary leadership, innovative practices, and an unwavering commitment to equity and excellence for all students. After a distinguished career, Dr. Connelly announced his retirement from Cumberland County Schools (CCS), effective July 1, 2025. Since 2018, Dr. Connelly has served as superintendent of CCS, where he leads one of North Carolina's largest school systems, encompassing 86 schools, over 50,000 students, and 6,500 employees. As the district’s chief executive officer and instructional leader, he manages a budget exceeding $611 million while implementing strategies that ensure high-quality, rigorous education for every student.

Prior to his tenure in Cumberland County, Dr. Connelly held key leadership roles in the Wake County Public School System (WCPSS), including Chief of Staff and Assistant Superintendent for Student Support Services. His career includes experiences as a middle and high school principal, special education teacher, and teacher assistant, illustrating his dedication to supporting students at every level.

Dr. Connelly’s educational background includes a doctorate in Educational Leadership from East Carolina University and master’s degrees in Special Education and School Administration from North Carolina State University. A proud military veteran, Dr. Connelly served as a U.S. Army officer, including time in the 82nd Airborne Division, and rose to the rank of Major in the Individual Ready Reserve (IRR).

Dr. Connelly’s service extends beyond education into his faith and community work. As Senior Pastor of St. Augusta Baptist Church in Fuquay-Varina, he has provided spiritual leadership and spearheaded community initiatives to address critical needs. He has also contributed to numerous boards and organizations, including Habitat for Humanity, the John Rex Foundation, and the National Alliance of Black School Educators.

Dr. Connelly has received numerous accolades for his leadership, including the 2024 North Carolina A. Craig Phillips Superintendent of the Year, the Sandhills Regional Superintendent of the Year, and the NAACP Educator of the Year Award. A published author and respected voice in education, Dr. Connelly remains committed to fostering partnerships and driving student success.

A devoted husband to Joyce Ann Connelly, Dr. Connelly is the proud father of four adult children, grandfather of 11, and great-grandfather of one. Dr. Connelly leaves behind a legacy of service, leadership, and impact that exemplifies the highest ideals of public service in North Carolina.