Francis Howell R-III board hears superintendent profile from consultants after 1,370-survey response and focus-group outreach

Search consultants Kevin (search consultant) and Diane (search consultant) presented the results of a superintendent profile and community survey to the Francis Howell R-III Board of Education, saying their outreach included 14 meetings and 81 focus‑group/open‑forum attendees and 1,370 survey responses.

The consultants said the engagement produced a set of perceived strengths and challenges the board can use to recruit and vet candidates. "We had 81 attendees for the focus group in open forums. We had 1,370 responses for the survey," Kevin said, adding the results reflect perceptions of those who participated and are not a scientific study.

The profile highlighted academic programs and staff as leading strengths. The consultants listed high academic standards and a broad set of course offerings — including Advanced Placement courses, Project Lead the Way and Spectrum (gifted) programs — robust special education and English‑learner services, and a wide range of extracurricular activities. Diane summarized the survey top strengths as quality teaching staff, communication, student safety, clean and attractive schools, and a nurturing learning environment.

But consultants told the board they also heard…