The Forest Hills Board of Education held a special meeting on May 24, 2023, to discuss the process of selecting a new superintendent. The meeting focused on the challenges and strategies involved in the search for a high-quality candidate, particularly given the timing of the search just before the school year begins.

During the meeting, representatives emphasized the importance of finding candidates who not only possess the necessary skills but also align with the district's values and culture. They noted that the current season for superintendent searches is not optimal, making it difficult to attract top candidates willing to leave their current positions at this late stage. The board was presented with two options for the search process, each with its own pros and cons, including the need for interim placements if the search is expedited.

The search process outlined includes four key phases: engagement, recruitment, selection, and transition support. The engagement phase involves gathering input from various stakeholders, including board members, staff, parents, and students, to create a leadership profile that reflects the community's needs. This will be followed by a recruitment phase where a wide range of candidates will be sought, leveraging a network of over 130 associates, many of whom are retired superintendents.

The selection phase will involve screening candidates and presenting a slate of the best fits for the district. The board will have access to all applicant files and will be involved in the interview process. Finally, the transition support phase will help the new superintendent acclimate to the district, including the development of a dashboard to track goals and progress.

The meeting concluded with a commitment to transparency throughout the process, ensuring that board members have continuous access to information and updates via a dedicated board portal. This portal will allow for easy access to candidate materials and feedback from stakeholders, enhancing the overall search experience.

The board's next steps will involve deciding on the preferred search timeline and approach, as they work towards securing a new leader for the Forest Hills Public School District.