Starting today we will begin the second round of the interview process in our search for the perfect superintendent to lead our schools. If nothing else this round will definitely test each candidate’s endurance. In the short time they are here each candidate will meet with a community committee, central office administration, Champaign Administrative Educators Association, the teachers union, support staff union, business leaders, and board members.
Picking a superintendent is the most important job as a board member, because the superintendent sets the tone for the entire district by not only displaying an undying passion to do what it takes to get every child to reach their full potential but also be able to motivate others under their leadership to do the same. Choose the right candidate and we’ll have students puzzled for not knowing which letter of acceptance to choose. Choose the wrong candidate and we’ll have students puzzled by wondering how they graduated at the top half of their high school class and still have to take remedial courses their first year of at a community college.
When the board met originally met with the search firm we gave them a list of criteria that we wanted in our next superintendent. The ability to unify stakeholders, values collaboration and transparency, a relationship builder who values people, a motivating and energetic leader, and someone who will be visible throughout the community just to name a few. So almost sixty applicants and nine interviews later we have narrowed the field down to four finalists.
Dr. Johnnie Thomas, Mr. Steven M. Cobb, Dr. Darryl Taylor and Dr. Judy Wiegand are the resilient few that made the cut.
While the final decision lies in the hands of the board, we are elected officials and I would like to hear from you. Click the names of each of the candidates to review their resumes and let me know what you think. I can be contacted at Brownja@champaignschools.org and I look forward to hearing from you. If all goes well the next time we meet the second Monday of the new year I’ll be introducing our new superintendent.