Superintendent search to be narrowed

A representative from the Missouri School Boards’ Association met with members of the Maryville R-II School District on Monday in order to assess important factors in hiring a new superintendent.

After Larry Linthacum announced his resignation in December, the search was quickly underway to find someone with substantial experience and credentials.

MSBA has been accepting applications for approximately two weeks now.

Applications aren’t due until Friday, but Bob Watkins, MSBA representative, said he anticipates 25 candidates will apply.

Although Watkins declined to discuss specifics about the candidates, he said they have received applications from people in several locations across the Midwest with varying levels of experience.

“From what I’ve seen thus far, there are very good candidates,” Watkins said. “That’s to the credit of this district. The board has a good reputation. They work well. They work efficiently. The district itself operates at a good level — steady, making progress. It’s the kind of place one would want to go and raise a family.”

In order to aid the process, MSBA is narrowing the candidates down to three or four, which will be interviewed by the board of education. On Monday, Watkins met with staff, parents and community members in order to discover the important issues to everyone involved.

Watkins said 90 percent of superintendent searches involve hosting open forums.

“There is a big benefit in having one-on-one conversations,” he said. “People are much more apt to say their opinions and things come out that you might not get with a large group. These meetings have been very helpful.”

From the open forum, Watkins said the R-II community expressed interest in having a superintendent who doubles as a city leader.

“I’ve heard they want someone to be really cognizant of the school and its role in the greater community,” he said, “to continue moving forward with academic achievement. People want someone who can communicate with the community at large, set a good course and direction for people to follow. It’s steady, consistent growth and providing opportunities for every kid. It’s pretty clear that this person needs to be a working piece of all aspects of town.”

Watkins is currently in the process of reviewing all applications and will conduct personal interviews with each candidate. With the board’s help, the candidates will be narrowed down for interviews.

The district has said Feb. 19 is the hire date for a new superintendent, but Watkins is unable to confirm that date.

“You never know if it will happen that fast,” he said. “We may have problems scheduling interviews, you just never know. I’m hoping the latter part of February for sure.”