Selecting our Search Firm

Last week's school board meeting reaffirmed my decision to run for re-election.  The conversation and outcome showed the best of our district and our board.

We had a single topic on the agenda: selecting the firm for our superintendent search. This is our most consequential duty because the superintendent is the board’s only direct employee.  We delegate authority to that individual to run the district.  

Every member brought a thoughtful, unique perspective.  We all did the homework, listened to our colleagues and constituents, and performed due diligence.  

The result: we voted 6-1 for Alma Advisory Group while converging on the idea of finding a “generational leader,” in the words of my colleague Andrew Wymer.  

Our next superintendent will embrace the fact that this is a once-in-a-lifetime role.  They will run toward the opportunity to partner with an engaged, passionate community to redefine public education in District 65.

Part of attracting a generational leader is our ability to act as a generational board. We’ve now shown we’re capable of doing that.  

Not because we all agree on every issue, but because we believe our differences lead to better results.  They sharpen our thinking, refine our strategy, and position us to make hard decisions.  

We have a lot of work to do, of course.  

But success comes from making the right decisions over a long time horizon.  Big wins are just small wins multiplied.  And this was a win.  

With gratitude,

Chris