Marci Catlett named new FXBG schools superintendent
Marceline R. “Marci” Catlett is the new superintendent of the Fredericksburg City Public Schools, after the School Board appointed her to the post at a special meeting Wednesday night.
Catlett was sworn into office for a four-year term at the meeting by Circuit Court Judge Gordon F. Willis.
School Board Chair Jennifer Boyd said Catlett stood out from a field of 34 applicants because of her demonstrated leadership, her record of service to the schools and her strong relationships and support within the Fredericksburg community.
“This was a thorough and fair search to make sure our community has the best person for the job,” Boyd said.
Board member Malvina Kaye, who abstained from the 5-0 vote because Catlett is her sister, noted that this was her fourth superintendent-search process as a School Board member. Never before had she seen a full meeting room for the decision announcement, as was the case Wednesday night.
In the audience were Catlett’s mother, son and many friends and supporters, as well as members of her James Monroe High School graduating class of 1977.
Catlett teared up as she addressed the audience.
“It’s about a calling that has been placed in me to serve, to serve children and to serve people,” she said. “I will not let you down. I am going to give it the best job I can do every day. You can count on that. I am here for you.”
Catlett has worked for Fredericksburg City Public Schools since 1981. After earning her teaching degree at Virginia State University, she started her career as a 6th- and 7th-grade teacher at Walker—Grant Middle School. She moved into administration after 12 years in the classroom.
Catlett became deputy superintendent in 2012, and the School Board appointed her as Interim Superintendent in July, after the retirement of former Superintendent David Melton.
Catlett holds master’s degrees from the University of Virginia and Virginia Commonwealth University. She earned her doctorate from Virginia Tech in 2018.
“You have worked your entire life for this moment,” said Board Member Jarvis Bailey. “You deserve to be celebrated.”