Goodrich- Within five months, a new school district superintendent could be on board.
That’s the message Carl Hartman of the Michigan Association of School Boards gave during a special meeting on Monday to discuss and outline the criteria to begin the search for a new superintendent. The vacancy was created after Superintendent Kim Hart was placed on administrative leave July 26. Since then, Richard Allen, former Mt. Morris School District superintendent, was hired on a temporary basis.
‘There’s lots of questions to be asked, but the key is a good fit for the district,? said Hartman. ‘The individual must work well with the board and staff. It’s imperative that expectations for the job are clearly defined. There should be no questions regarding what is needed’now’s the time before this person is on board.?
Key for the new superintendent will be a possible bond issue for building upgrades, the healing process following a tumultuous battle with the teachers? union and community relationships. In addition, several members of the audience suggested an interview team consisting of teachers, parents, students and community members.
‘Starting a superintendent in the middle of the school year is not a problem’this is a good school district,? added Hartman.
Hartman said that a multi-year contract and competitive pay similar to the previous superintendent pay is suggested to attract the right person for the job.
Kim Hart earned $119,000 per year.
‘We need a superintendent experienced in a variety of matters,? said Michael J. Thorp, trustee. ‘We’re a small district but the largest employer in the community.?