Broward Residents Meet Superintendent Finalists At Tuesday Night Forum

FORT LAUDERDALE (CBSMiami) - Broward residents got a chance to weigh in on who they would like as the next superintendent of the county's school district.

The two finalists for the job are interim Superintendent Dr. Vickie Cartwright and Michael Gaal.

Cartwright, a lifelong educator, has been leading the district since former Superintendent Robert Runcie left after he was charged with perjury related to a criminal corruption case against a former employee.

Gaal is a retired U.S. Air Force colonel. While he has never taught K through 12, Gaal says he was a pilot instructor in the Air Force and he has held top school administrator positions in Washington, D.C., and Oakland, California. He's promised to visit every school in the district and indicated he's given his cell phone number to teachers in the past so they can let him know firsthand when they have a concern.

Those interested in meeting the two candidates got the chance Tuesday during a 7 p.m. forum at Plantation High.

The forum was moderated by Ray & Associates, who asked the finalists questions generated from the various focus group sessions that occurred during the search process.

While the public was not allowed to ask questions, candidates were made available to speak with attendees at the conclusion of the session.

The Broward School Board is scheduled to meet on Wednesday to choose the new superintendent.