Greenfield School Board engages MCOE for superintendent search process

In a pivotal meeting held on March 7, 2025, the Greenfield Union School District (GUSD) Board of Trustees engaged in a robust discussion regarding the search for a new superintendent. The atmosphere was charged with a sense of urgency as board members weighed the merits of conducting a local versus a national search, all while considering the implications for the district's future leadership.

The conversation began with board members expressing their appreciation for the current interim superintendent, Laura, who has been with the district for seven years. Many voiced their support for her continued leadership, citing her deep connections within the community and the positive feedback from parents and staff. "We already have somebody here that has proven themselves," one trustee remarked, emphasizing the importance of local knowledge in a leadership role.

As the board deliberated, the financial aspects of the search process came into focus. Discussions highlighted the potential costs associated with hiring external search firms, with estimates ranging from $1,000 to $30,000 depending on the scope of the search. Some members advocated for utilizing the Monterey County Office of Education (MCOE) to conduct the search, suggesting it could be a more cost-effective option while still providing the necessary expertise.

The board also grappled with the timeline for the search, aiming to have a new superintendent in place by July 1. "We need to start moving forward," one member urged, stressing the importance of establishing a clear direction for the search process. The consensus leaned towards a local search, with many agreeing that candidates familiar with the district's unique challenges would be better suited for the role.

Ultimately, the board voted unanimously to engage MCOE in the search process, marking a significant step towards securing stable leadership for the district. "If there is a better candidate, then there’s a better candidate," one trustee noted, reinforcing the commitment to transparency and community involvement in the selection process.

As the meeting concluded, the board members reflected on the importance of making a thoughtful decision that would benefit the students and families of Greenfield. The discussions underscored a collective desire to ensure that the next superintendent not only meets the district's needs but also embodies the values and vision of the community.