MECKLENBURG COUNTY, N.C. — It was a whirlwind first day on the job for new CMS Superintendent Dr. Heath Morrison.

Morrison spent the majority of the day touring four schools with active summer programs. Some for students to get a head start to fall, others trying to get back on track to graduation.

"I can't understand the things I need to understand as superintendent if I'm at my office all the time,” said Morrison.

In between, Morrison kept a close eye on the ongoing budget talks in Raleigh. With final numbers and details for the 2012-2013 school year still uncertain, Morrison said this is one of the most challenging scenarios he has ever stepped into.

He maintains the 3 percent raises for staff is still his top priority.

"I'm trying to make lots of phone calls trying to make sure that people understand what we need in the district and advocate for our kids and for our employees," said Morrison.

The new superintendent for CMS has to present a final budget proposal to the Board of Education in two weeks.