Craven County Board of Education Approves Dr. Matthew Cheeseman as New Superintendent
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New Bern, NC-The Craven County Board of Education approved the appointment of Dr. Matthew Cheeseman as the district’s next superintendent during its Work Session held on December 16, 2025. Dr. Cheeseman will officially assume the role on February 1, 2026.
Dr. Cheeseman brings more than 31 years of experience in public education, including 10 years as a superintendent. He currently serves as Superintendent of Beaufort County Schools, a position he has held since January 2019. He was recently named the 2025–2026 Southeast Region 2 Superintendent of the Year and was selected as a finalist for North Carolina Superintendent of the Year.
“Dr. Cheeseman stood out during the interview process because of his passion in wanting to serve Craven County Schools and his clear commitment to moving our district forward as THE CHOICE for families, students, and staff,” said Board Chairman Lee Kirkman. “The Board looks forward to working with him as we continue building a strong future for our schools.”
Throughout his career, Dr. Cheeseman has held a wide range of leadership and instructional roles in districts across North Carolina and the country, including superintendent, chief academic officer, curriculum leader, administrator, athletic director, and classroom teacher.
Dr. Cheeseman holds a Doctorate from East Carolina University, a Master of Arts from San Jose State University, a Bachelor of Science from Delaware Valley University, and Principal Certification from Gardner-Webb University.
To ensure continuity in leadership, the Board of Education has approved Dr. Stuart Blount to serve as Interim Superintendent effective January 1, 2026, as Mr. Richard Stout completes his term as the current Interim Superintendent. Dr. Blount will serve in this role until Dr. Cheeseman officially begins on February 1, 2026.
Dr. Cheeseman has been married to Dr. Lisa Cheeseman for 29 years. They have one daughter, who will graduate from high school in May 2026.
The Craven County Board of Education looks forward to Dr. Cheeseman’s leadership and his continued commitment to academic excellence, student success, and community engagement.
- All Schools