District conducts community survey to determine new superintendent criteria

On April 17, 2025, Cumberland County Schools held a significant meeting focused on the search for a new superintendent, emphasizing community involvement in the selection process. The discussions centered around two proposed plans that incorporate community feedback through surveys and meetings, aiming to identify the key attributes desired in a new leader for the school district.

The meeting outlined a structured approach to gather input from the community. Under plans two and three, a survey consisting of 21 questions will be distributed, allowing residents to express their priorities regarding the qualifications and experiences they deem essential for the new superintendent. Participants will rate various attributes, such as prior teaching experience and familiarity with school district finance, helping to distill these responses into ten critical criteria for candidate evaluation.

The process aims to ensure that the selected superintendent aligns with community expectations. For instance, if a strong teaching background is highlighted as a priority, candidates will be screened for relevant experience in the classroom. This method not only narrows down the applicant pool but also enhances the likelihood of selecting a leader who resonates with the community's needs.

To facilitate community engagement, the district plans to utilize various communication channels. These include posting the survey on the school district's website, leveraging parent communication apps, and sending home letters with students that contain links to the survey. The timeline for the survey is designed to be efficient, with a recommendation to keep it open for no longer than a week to maximize participation.

Additionally, the meeting addressed the cost implications of the proposed plans. It was clarified that the guarantee mentioned in the cost sheet applies specifically to plans two and three, which involve candidate recommendations, while plan one does not include this service.

In conclusion, the Cumberland County Schools meeting highlighted a proactive approach to selecting a new superintendent, emphasizing the importance of community input and clear communication. As the district moves forward with this process, the engagement of local residents will be crucial in shaping the future leadership of the schools. The next steps will involve finalizing the survey and ensuring widespread participation to gather valuable insights from the community.