In his first on-camera interview since becoming acting superintendent of Bridgeport Public Schools, Dr. Royce Avery said his top priority -- "next to working in partnership with the school board" - will be to seek input from parents, teachers and staff.

"It's vital to know what everybody is thinking so we can address all of the critical issues facing the district, ranging from academic performance to funding our schools," said Avery Wednesday,

"This is a partnership, and we must move forward together," he said.

The Bridgeport School Board appointed Avery to the interim position after the superintendent, Dr. Carmela Levy-David, went on medical leave last month. She is not expected to return.

Levy-David's departure came after a survey by the Bridgeport Education Association found 97% of teachers who responded had "no confidence" in her leadership.

Avery was hired as deputy superintendent one years ago, shortly after Levy-David became superintendent. Both had previously been educators in Texas.