The Board of Education (BOE) initiated its national search for a superintendent following former Superintendent Dr. Monifa McKnight’s stepping down and the appointment of Interim Superintendent Dr. Monique Felder.
The BOE intends to hire a search firm that will recruit and vet candidates.
Meanwhile, the school district is seeking input.
Its website features a form that people can list what they believe is most important when hiring a superintendent.
Students, staff and community members will be able to fill out a survey starting Wednesday.
Three in-person town halls will be held in April.
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- April 2, 2024–Seneca Valley High School, 6:00 p.m.
- April 3, 2024–Richard Montgomery High School, 6:00 p.m.
- April 4, 2024–Wheaton High School, 6:00 p.m.
A virtual meeting is expected to be held although no date has been set.
The search is divided into three phases. The BOE first will collect the results from what residents, students, staff and county leaders believe would make a good leader.
The second phase involves the paid national search. The identities of candidates chosen for interviews will be confidential.
During the final phase, the BOE will conduct interviews along with a community panel. They will then announce their choice.
“The Board is fully committed to conducting a thorough search until they find a suitable candidate who meets its leadership profile,” according to a news release from Montgomery County Public Schools (MCPS).
“The significance of the superintendent search process cannot be understated,” said Karla Silvestre, BOE president, in the news release.
“It is crucial that we secure a highly qualified superintendent who shares our commitment to student success and who will work tirelessly toward that end. I urge all members of our community to participate in the public engagement process, to ensure that their voices are heard and that we select a superintendent who reflects the values and priorities of our diverse community.”
According to state law, the appointment must be finalized by July 1 for the Maryland Department of Education to approve the choice before the new school year begins.
By Maryland state law, county school superintendent appointments must be finalized by July 1 for Maryland State Department of Education approval and appointment for the upcoming school year.
