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D97 issues RFPs, plans stakeholder engagement as superintendent search begins
Summary
The district issued requests for proposals for superintendent search services and plans robust stakeholder engagement; proposals are due Oct. 3 and the board expects a compressed timeline for review and interviews.
Oak Park Elementary School District 97 launched a superintendent search process in September, issuing requests for proposals (RFPs) for search firms and planning stakeholder engagement activities to shape candidate qualifications. Board members said the district will solicit robust community input and aim to narrow the applicant pool quickly.
Timing and outreach: The board noted that proposals for search firms are due Oct. 3. The search firm will perform outreach and help run focus groups and surveys; board members emphasized the importance of getting stakeholder input from principals, teachers, parents, park district partners and other community organizations.
Process notes: Board members acknowledged the district is behind some districts in starting the process but expressed a desire to balance speed with a thoughtful process. The board will decide who reviews proposals, schedule interviews and determine the community engagement plan. One board member described the need to align on priorities (for example whether the next superintendent must be local or have specific district experience) before finalists are named.
Next steps: The board expects to review proposals and set interview and engagement dates in October. Members noted the likelihood of several meetings in October and November to accommodate proposal review, finalist interviews and community engagement steps.
Why it matters: The superintendent selection will determine district leadership and strategy for the coming years; board members emphasized transparency and broad participation.
