The new superintendent of Harrison County schools told faculty and staff representatives on Monday about her basic leadership style -- open door and by the book.
"My style is fairly straightforward, and you'll find I keep an open door. The biggest rule is probably the most simple, and that's to treat others as you would like to be treated," said Pamela Sumpter-Cain, the newly named superintendent.
The Harrison County Board of Education announced Sumpter-Cain's appointment Monday morning.
She will replace outgoing Superintendent Robert E. Kittle, who announced his retirement in late March.
Sumpter-Cain, a native of Weston and a graduate of Lewis County High School, said she was looking forward to working with the Harrison County School system.
"I've listened to people from around the state who have said this would be a wonderful county to go to. I want to continue on that great reputation built by Bob Kittle," she said.
Sumpter-Cain, 47, has served as the superintendent of Wirt County schools for the past four years. Before that time she was an associate professor of education at Glenville State College.
Sumpter-Cain also spent a number of years in the classroom, working in special education and as an elementary school teacher.
"She was the top choice of the citizen committee, and that was important to us," said James Bennett, Harrison County school board president.
Sumpter-Cain will officially begin her new post on July 1. Kittle, who was Harrison's superintendent for more than 14 years, is slated to retire on June 30.
Staff writer Gail Marsh can be reached at 626-1447.
