The process of finding the next superintendent for Homewood District 153 is moving into the next phase now that consultants have analyzed feedback from staff, parents and the community.
Dr. Kevin O’Mara, president of School Exec Connect, the consultant firm leading the search, addressed the school board at its Sept. 15 meeting. He gave an outline of the findings from various conversations, forums and online survey responses, and shared packets of data with school board members to help them finalize the traits and attributes they want in the district’s next superintendent. He said 57% of respondents were parents and 31% were staff.
The school district is looking for someone to step into the position held by Superintendent Scott McAlister who is retiring in June.
“This fit’s got to be right for kids and families and everyone up here (on the school board),” O’Mara said.
The new superintendent will need to be a good communicator who will need “to start building relationships as soon as (he/she) walks through the door. That is the top priority: Develop trust and a clear future vision for the district,” O’Mara said.
A quality teaching staff was the top priority for 70% of respondents, followed by a positive learning environment. Respondents described the Homewood community as close-knit and supportive of its schools. It has a diverse population that welcomes multi-culturalism.
The district is running a deficit, so the next superintendent will need to understand budgets and budget constraints, especially in light of upcoming contract negotiations.
The superintendent also needs to review the special education department. The numbers of students needing services is increasing and staffing has been an issue.
O’Mara said the candidate will be “a leader who walks the walk” with great interpersonal skills and an open door policy.
School Board President Alex Bosche said for him, there were no surprises from the survey and responses. Board member Ron Zinnerman said he appreciated that the phrase “rock the boat” was among the responses. Sometimes a new person will recognize a need for change and that could “rock the boat.”
O’Mara said the firm will review applications and give the board five to seven candidates for interviews.
