The board will discuss the timing of initiating a search for a successor superintendent, including deciding on the publication of an RFP for search services.
Though WSSDA does not have a current publication, Nicole was able to find an old WSSDA Superintendent Search Handbook (2001) that may be helpful to the board as you embark on a superintendent search. Much of it is outdated (such as the expected candidate pool size), but still, it is good information.
The board has several options to consider as you seek to identify a new Superintendent:
Hire an incredibly capable internal candidate
Contract with a Consultant or Search Firm to conduct a search (that may include internal and external applicants)
Do a search yourself, using Vicky Barnes as your support
The number of early resignations from superintendencies across the state is very high this year. (In Cowlitz County alone, there are four vacancies: Woodland, Kalama, Toutle, and Longview. Plus, Ridgefield in Clark County is open). Given diminished pools and the potential number of vacancies in the state and nation, the board may wish to hit the market early.
As a proactive step, the board may wish to direct me to send out a Request for Proposals (RFP) in the next few days to consultants. This would allow the board the opportunity to review and identify a consultant at the December 14th board meeting. Using a template from the Search Handbook, a DRAFT RFP has been developed.
In the proposal, I suggested a timeline that will allow the board the opportunity to review and screen proposals in November, and, if the board decides on option 2, select a consultant in December and use the January 11 workshop to work with the chosen consultant and develop a plan and timeline for superintendent selection.