KANNAPOLIS — Dr. Pamela Cain says she is grateful for her time as superintendent of Kannapolis City Schools and wishes the district the best.

The Kannapolis City Board of Education voted to end Cain’s term as superintendent. Cain’s contract was originally planned to end in 2018, but the board unanimously voted to buy out her contract on Monday.

“I understand that the board wanted to go in another direction, and so I respect their decision and their right to do so,” Cain said.

Todd Adams, chairman of the Board of Education, said it was time for a leadership change for Kannapolis but did not give any other explanations as to why Cain’s contract was terminated.

“We wish Pam the best. I don’t think there’s any one of us on the board who has ill personal feelings towards Pam,” Adams said.

Cain became superintendent of Kannapolis City Schools in July of 2010. Before her time in Kannapolis, she was the assistant state superintendent of West Virginia public schools.

Cain said she was grateful for the support of the community and has enjoyed her time as superintendent.

“I’ve really enjoyed working with (Rowan and Cabarrus) counties … and I’ve really been fortunate to be with the students and the staff that I’ve experienced in the last five years,” she said.

Cain also said she was grateful for the advice of Ralph Ketner, co-founder of Food Lion, who she frequently talked to about educational matters.

Daron “Chip” Buckwell was named the interim superintendent for the school system.

Buckwell has worked his way up through the KCS system since 1985. He served as a teacher, dropout prevention coordinator, director of student services, director of testing, principal and assistant superintendent.

“I have all the respect in the world for Dr. Cain. She’s a good leader. We worked well together, communicated okay together,” Buckwell said.

Buckwell said he fully intends on applying for the permanent superintendent job when the opportunity comes up.

Adams said there is currently no timeline as to when a permanent superintendent will be chosen and the board members will probably discuss that at their November meeting.

Cain said she is using this time to figure out what she wants to do next and wishes the school system the best.

“I am especially grateful for the support of the community and all that they’ve shown me while I’ve been at KCS. It’s been really marvelous,” she said.