School board outlines plans for super search

The Wahkiakum School District Board of Directors and administrators met Tuesday with Melissa Kreuder, human resources director at Educational Service District (ESD) 112, in the first of a series of meetings planned to discuss the superintendent search process.

The school board went over results of a recent survey about the qualities teachers and staff were looking for in a new superintendent. They were asked three questions: 1) What do you consider to be the most important attribute of our next superintendent? 2) What experiences or educational background would you like our next superintendent to possess? and 3) In your opinion, how important is the future superintendent’s role in the community and staff involvement?

They are still hoping for more responses in house, but so far, results show that the employees are looking for a superintendent with a “clear educational vision for the district,” at least two years teaching experience, and a desire to live in the community and have a good rapport with the community. They also want someone who is fair, a good communicator, and a team builder.

Kreuder guided the board as they discussed the job description. Some of the qualifications that the board would prefer include a superintendent certification; five years of school administration experience including a principal certification or eligibility to hold a principal certification; and five years teaching experience.

The board also discussed how to get Wahkiakum residents involved in the process, by holding an event or creating a similar survey to gather their input.

The next two meetings are scheduled for this Friday and next Tuesday at 4:15 p.m. in the Wahkiakum High School library. The meetings are open to the public.

On Friday, Kreuder will return with a job description for the board to consider and there will be some discussion about the replacement levy, which will be on the February 13 ballot.