Dr. Andraé Townsel

Dr. Andraé Townsel is an award-winning, highly effective superintendent with a proven track record of improving student achievement, financial acumen, and district-wide transformation. A three-time graduate of Howard University, Dr. Townsel holds a Doctorate, Master’s, and Bachelor’s degree, demonstrating his lifelong commitment to educational excellence. He is a graduate of the inaugural cohort of the AASA Urban Superintendent Academy and holds Maryland’s Advanced Professional Superintendent License.

As Superintendent of Calvert County Public Schools (CCPS) in Maryland, Dr. Townsel has led impressive academic gains, including contributing to Maryland’s meteoric rise in proficiency levels on the latest the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) from 40th to 20th in fourth grade reading nationally, driven by a district-wide commitment to the Science of Reading. Under his leadership, CCPS became the #4 best district in Maryland, achieving #1 statewide rankings in key MCAP literacy assessments. Financially, he secured a “Zero Audit Findings” report, meaning no weaknesses or compliance issues, while significantly increasing district investment earnings.

Previously, as Superintendent of Benton Harbor Area Schools in Michigan, Dr. Townsel led the district out of a decades-long financial deficit, increased student achievement, and secured a $3 million literacy grant. His expertise in school transformation has earned him national recognition, including the Howard University Alumni Award for Distinguished Postgraduate Achievement (2024), the Legacy23 Award for Educational Leadership (2024), and the Teachers Festival Excellence in Education Award (2023).

“I am eager to bring my leadership to Milwaukee Public Schools because of the opportunity to increase literacy proficiency levels across the district and to demonstrate effective financial leadership. I am committed to ensuring that all students develop strong reading and math skills, while also building a fiscally responsible and high-performing school system that benefits all of Milwaukee’s students, families, and community. I will lead with a sense of urgency.”