The New Haven Board of Education narrowly voted to table the hiring of a new chief of staff for the district, delaying Superintendent Madeline Negrón’s recommendation to appoint Tamesha Webb. Board Secretary Edward Joyner led the motion, emphasizing the need for a fair and inclusive process.

Board concerns and vote

Joyner, joined by board members Matt Wilcox, Andrea Downer and OrLando Yarborough III, voted to postpone the appointment until the district provides more detail on the hiring procedure. Board members Abie Benitez, Daniel Juarez and Mayor Justin Elicker voted against tabling.

The board split 4‑3, reflecting deep concerns about resume accuracy, the limited candidate pool and the fairness of the process for both external and internal applicants.

Candidate background

Webb, a Harvard graduate with eight years of experience, serves as chair of the Governance Commission for the New York State Alliance of Black School Educators and teaches as an adjunct for New Leaders, a professional‑development nonprofit.

Had the appointment been approved, Webb would have started on Tuesday with a salary of $177,000.

Superintendent’s hiring history

Negrón noted that the chief of staff position has been vacant for over two years, since Michael Finley resigned in July 2024. Over the past two years, roughly four applicants have been considered, but Negrón said only one met the job description.

The district’s standard verification process includes confirming resume details, contacting recommenders, and involving cabinet members and union presidents in interviews.

Board’s request for information

Joyner asked Negrón to provide the number of candidates interviewed and details of the verification steps. Joyner highlighted that only one candidate had been interviewed, calling this “not good practice.” He stressed the importance of developing internal talent and ensuring succession and continuity, as state guidelines advise.

Board Vice President Matt Wilcox affirmed the necessity of the chief of staff role, noting that New Haven has fewer school administrators than the state average and that the board must support the superintendent in staffing essential positions.

Other board actions

While the chief of staff hire was tabled, the board unanimously approved a new secondary‑focused math supervisor, hiring former Wallingford educator Christina Madancy at a starting salary of $171,983, effective Sept. 21.

Superintendent’s perspective

Negrón emphasized that the chief of staff is not an extra layer of management but the central point of operational accountability, connecting finance, operations, academics and human resources. She warned that isolated central office departments lead to stalled projects, broken communication and wasted resources.

Original reporting: New Haven Independent — read the source article.