The Office of the Superintendent

Dear Parents, Students, Staff, and Community Stakeholders,

It is with deep respect and a profound sense of responsibility that I step into the role of Interim Superintendent of Wilkes County Schools. The loss of our beloved Superintendent, Mr. Mark Byrd, has touched every corner of our community, and like many of you, I remain grateful for his leadership, his vision, and the compassion he brought to our district each day. It is an honor to continue this important work, and I am committed to leading with the same integrity and devotion that he modeled so well.

My journey in education began here in Wilkes County Schools in 1998 as a middle grades math and science teacher. From those early days in the classroom, I learned that strong relationships, high expectations, and genuine care for our students can transform lives. Those beliefs have guided me throughout my career—whether serving as Assistant Principal, Principal, Director of Student Services, Executive Director of Human Resources and Personnel, or most recently as Assistant Superintendent of Human Resources and Personnel.

Over the past two decades, I have been fortunate to serve our district and state in a variety of leadership roles, from working on statewide professional committees to supporting local community partnerships. These experiences have reinforced my belief in the power of collaboration, the importance of servant leadership, and the promise of public education to uplift every student.

Beyond my professional work, I am grateful to be part of a community that values service and connection. Whether supporting local initiatives through the Wilkes United Way or worshiping with my family at Celebration Church in North Wilkesboro, this community continues to inspire me with its kindness, resilience, and dedication to our children.

As we move forward together, my commitment is simple: to listen, to support, and to lead in a way that reflects the strength and unity of Wilkes County. Our students deserve our very best—every day, in every classroom—and I believe wholeheartedly in the incredible educators, families, and partners who make that possible.

Thank you for your continued trust, collaboration, and love for our schools. I am honored to serve you in this season of transition, and I look forward to working together to ensure that every child in Wilkes County Schools thrives.

With gratitude and optimism,

Westley Wood, Ed.D.
Superintendent