Dr. Don Phipps Takes Helm as New Superintendent of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools

WINSTON-SALEM, N.C. — On Monday, December 1, Dr. Don Phipps was officially sworn in as the new superintendent of Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools (WS/FCS).

 

With over two decades of experience in North Carolina's educational system, Dr. Phipps brings a wealth of knowledge and leadership to the district.

 

Prior to this appointment, he served as superintendent for Caldwell County Schools since 2018, where he was honored as the 2023 North Carolina Superintendent of the Year.

 

His tenure in Caldwell County was marked by significant improvements in both fiscal management and student achievement.

 

Dr. Phipps has also held leadership roles in Beaufort County Schools and Cumberland County Schools, further solidifying his reputation as a dedicated and effective educational leader.

 

Upon his swearing-in, Dr. Phipps expressed gratitude to the Board of Education for the opportunity to serve.

 

He emphasized his commitment to collaborating with staff and building strong community relationships, stating, "I look forward to working with folks within the system and certainly building relationships in our community, so I'm ready to get busy and get to work."

 

His appointment comes at a critical time for WS/FCS, as the district continues to address a substantial budget deficit.

 

Earlier this year, the district faced a nearly $46 million shortfall for the 2024-2025 school year.

 

Through concerted efforts, including staff reductions, budget cuts, and collaboration with state and local lawmakers, the deficit has been reduced to approximately $22 million as of November 2025.

 

Community initiatives, such as the "All In For Our Schools" campaign, have played a pivotal role in this progress.

 

Dr. Phipps acknowledged the challenges ahead but remains optimistic about the district's future.

 

He remarked, "Despite what we have in our immediate background, we will move beyond that. We'll heal, we'll grow, and we'll come out stronger, I hope, as we get through that together."

 

His 15-month contract is designed to provide consistent leadership while the Board conducts a comprehensive search for a long-term superintendent.

 

Board Chair Deanna Kaplan highlighted Dr. Phipps' exceptional credentials and statewide respect, emphasizing the importance of his steady leadership during this period of financial recovery.

 

As Dr. Phipps embarks on this new role, the WS/FCS community looks forward to his leadership in navigating the district through its current challenges and toward a future of stability and academic excellence.