Litchfield Public Schools’ search for a new superintendent began in earnest this week.
The district announced Monday it will seek public input, through an online survey, on the process and desired qualities for a new superintendent.
“An important part of the search process is gathering stakeholder input for the Board to consider as it moves forward in selecting the new superintendent,” the release said.
Superintendent Beckie Simenson announced earlier this year she will retire at the end of the current school year, in June 2024. Since then the School Board has discussed in broad terms the process for replacing Simenson. The board agreed last month to work with the Minnesota School Boards Association on the hiring process.
Barb Dorn, director of leadership development and executive search at MSBA, met with board members Nov. 8 to discuss the search and hiring timeline, role of the current superintendent, search agreement costs and other topics.
The agenda packet for Monday’s School Board meeting included a job-posting sheet that gave a brief description of the district as well as a “Leadership Profile.”
Among the qualities the School Board is looking for in a superintendent “of high moral character” are:
- Acts with honesty and in an ethical manner with the School Board, staff and community;
- Is visible and accessible to the school Board, staff, students, parents and community;
- Is a “people person” with proven abilities in human relations and communications;
- Develops and directs an effective leadership team;
- Develops trust and works collaboratively with a diverse group of stakeholders; and
- Effectively mediates and accommodates different perspectives, and values teamwork.
- Previous experience as a superintendent is not required.
The profile also offered that the superintendent salary for 2023-2024 is $152,679 and that “a competitive compensation and benefits package will be negotiated commensurate with experience and qualifications.”
Deadline for applications is Jan. 14, and applicant screening will be Jan. 14-22, according to the search timeline approved by the board. First-round interviews will be Jan. 31 and Feb. 1, with second-round interviews Feb. 5.
The timeline calls for an offer to be made and contract approved by Feb. 12, with the new superintendent beginning July 1.
“The search has begun,” board Chairman Alex Carlson said.
