School Board weighs superintendent search firms McPherson and Hazard Young Atia

The Thompson School District Board of Education held a special session on February 26, 2025, to discuss the selection of a search firm for the recruitment of a new superintendent. The meeting focused on evaluating proposals from two firms: Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates (HYA) and McPherson & Jacobson.

The discussion began with board members sharing their impressions of both firms. One member noted the advantages of HYA, particularly their online portal that allows board members to access all applicants, fostering transparency in the selection process. However, concerns were raised about HYA's limited recruitment experience in Colorado and their higher costs compared to McPherson.

In contrast, McPherson was praised for its local connections and familiarity with Colorado school districts. Board members appreciated McPherson's clear outline of responsibilities, which helped gauge the time commitment required from the board during the search process. The firm’s lower cost was also highlighted as a significant advantage.

Several members expressed a preference for McPherson, citing their structured approach and the detailed task list provided in their proposal. The board acknowledged the importance of having a firm that understands local needs and can effectively engage with the community during the search.

As the meeting progressed, it became evident that while HYA offered some appealing features, such as the online portal, the overall consensus leaned towards McPherson due to their cost-effectiveness and local expertise. The board plans to send out a community survey to gather input on the qualities desired in a new superintendent, with McPherson already prepared to initiate this process.

In conclusion, the board's discussions reflected a careful consideration of both firms, with a strong inclination towards McPherson & Jacobson for their local knowledge, structured approach, and affordability. The next steps will involve community engagement to ensure the search aligns with the district's needs and priorities.