
On January 7, 2025, the Monroe County Community School Corporation (MCCSC) Board of School Trustees unanimously appointed Dr. Markay L. Winston as the new superintendent.
This decision follows her six-month tenure as interim superintendent, during which she demonstrated a commitment to transparency, community engagement, and educational excellence.
Dr. Winston’s association with MCCSC began in 2017, serving as Deputy Superintendent and Assistant Superintendent for Curriculum & Instruction. Her career spans over three decades in public education, including roles such as school psychologist, Director of Student Services, Chief Officer for Diverse Learner Supports, Chief Academic Officer, and Assistant Superintendent. Her experience encompasses leadership positions in rural, suburban, and urban districts, notably in Cincinnati and Chicago Public Schools.
Educationally, Dr. Winston holds a Ph.D. and a Master’s degree in School Psychology & Counseling from the University of Cincinnati, along with administrative and superintendent licenses from Xavier University. Her extensive background underscores her dedication to fostering inclusive and effective educational environments.
During her interim period, Dr. Winston prioritized community engagement, conducting nearly 200 listening sessions with various stakeholders, including parents, teachers, staff, community organizations, business leaders, and government officials. She established the Young Child Advisory Group and the Superintendent’s Student Voice Advisory Council to ensure that student perspectives remain central to decision-making processes.
Dr. Winston has outlined six strategic priorities for MCCSC’s future:
1. Strengthening health and safety efforts: Implementing comprehensive measures to ensure the well-being of students and staff.
2. Accelerating learning potential for all children: Enhancing educational programs to meet diverse student needs and promote academic excellence.
3. Expanding early learning programs: Increasing access to quality early childhood education to lay a strong foundation for lifelong learning.
4. Ensuring state-of-the-art facilities: Upgrading academic, athletic, and performing arts infrastructures to provide optimal learning environments.
5. Strengthening fiscal and operational health: Promoting financial stability and efficient operations within the district.
6. Establishing a new five-year strategic plan: Developing a comprehensive roadmap to guide MCCSC’s growth and development.
Board President April Hennessey expressed confidence in Dr. Winston’s leadership, stating, “We are thrilled to appoint Dr. Markay Winston as superintendent of MCCSC. In her six months as interim superintendent, she has demonstrated her deep understanding of our community, her compassion for all of our stakeholders, her deep commitment to making this district the best it can be, and her skill at navigating so many competing priorities at this crucial moment.”
Dr. Winston’s appointment follows the early contract buyout of former Superintendent Jeff Hauswald in March 2024. During her interim tenure, she has been praised for enhancing transparency and communication within the district, addressing previous concerns regarding stakeholder involvement in decision-making processes.
Looking ahead, Dr. Winston envisions MCCSC becoming the premier learning destination in southern Indiana, focusing on the unique needs of every learner and creating innovative educational experiences. Her leadership is expected to build upon MCCSC’s strong academic traditions and commitment to equity, guiding the district toward a future of continued excellence.