Superintendent Scott Coward to retire after 46-year education career, says he will stay an advocate

Superintendent Scott Coward told the Carroll County Board of Education on March 9 that he plans to retire at the end of June or when the board appoints his successor to ensure a smooth transition. Coward, who said his career in public education spans 46 years and 38 years with Carroll County Schools, reviewed district accomplishments and thanked staff, board members and his family.

"I plan to retire as superintendent of Carroll County Schools at the end of June or until the point in time that the board has hired their next superintendent to ensure a smooth transition," Coward said.

In remarks that ran more than an hour, Coward outlined several measures of district progress under his leadership, including what he described as a rise in the graduation rate from 67% in 2010 to 97.7% this year and expanded facilities and programs across the district. He credited investments in a performing arts center, broader STEM certification across schools and a unified long-range strategic direction for the gains.

Coward also highlighted student and staff recognitions presented earlier in the meeting, including state-level winners in athletics and academic competitions, and administrative efforts to modernize learning environments. He said those accomplishments reflected teamwork among teachers, principals, central-office staff and community supporters.

Board members used the public portion of the meeting to thank Coward for his leadership. "You've been a great leader and I appreciate you and everything you've done for our county," one board member said. Another called Coward "a giant" whose 16 years of consistent leadership made a lasting impact on the district.

Coward told the board he will remain an advocate and ambassador for Carroll County Schools after his retirement and urged trustees to continue the district's strategic direction as they begin the search for a new superintendent. The board announced a special called meeting next Tuesday at 5:30 p.m. to begin that process.

The board did not take formal action regarding Coward's retirement date at the March 9 meeting. Officials said the transition will continue until a successor is named.