Winston-Salem/Forsyth County Schools has a new leader. Don Phipps officially stepped into the superintendent role Monday, taking over at a pivotal moment for the district as it continues to navigate financial challenges and staffing upheavals.

Your opinion counts — Vote today in our Local Favorites 2025 survey!

In remarks to students, families, and staff, Phipps emphasized his focus on student success and well-being, saying he plans to visit schools across the district in his first weeks to gather input on what’s working and what could improve.

“Your input is vital to helping the district meet your needs and reach its fullest potential,” he said.

Phipps, who brings two decades of experience guiding districts through complex budget environments, acknowledged the district’s “challenging and stressful year,” but expressed optimism about rebuilding trust and stability. He highlighted ongoing progress in the district’s financial outlook and said he looks forward to strengthening systems to support every student.

As WS/FCS works to address multimillion-dollar budget shortfalls and recover from a year of turbulence, Phipps inherits a role critical to both restoring stability and shaping the district’s next chapter.

Click here for our full coverage of the district’s ongoing budget saga. Watch Phipps’ remarks in their entirety below:

Send news tips, letters to the editor, or hot takes to editor@scopenewsonline.com! 

Copyright 2025 Informed Media Group LLC. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed without express written consent.