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Board selects Google‑format stakeholder survey for superintendent search after debate over language accessibility and data depth
Summary
The Chandler Unified board debated two survey options for the superintendent search — a proprietary research survey from HYA and a modified Google survey — and after discussion voted 3–2 to use the Google format, citing language accessibility and cost concerns; HYA will continue to run other search activities.
The Chandler Unified Governing Board voted 3–2 on Oct. 22 to use a modified Google survey as the district’s stakeholder survey for the superintendent search, after an extended discussion about trade‑offs between a proprietary research instrument and broader language accessibility.
Board members considered two options presented by the search consultant HYA: a research‑based proprietary survey (HYA) and a modified Google Form that HYA said could be adapted for the district. HYA’s consultants described the proprietary instrument as research based, with itemized indicators that produce prioritization charts; HYA said the product typically yields 10–15 minute completion times and includes English and Spanish for no extra fee, with additional translations available for $550 per language. The consultant said the HYA survey is commonly used where districts seek both a leadership profile and a “state of the district” snapshot.
Board member Nick Rohrs, who initially moved to adopt the HYA survey, said he valued the HYA product’s narrative displays and research foundation but acknowledged members’ concerns about translation cost and reach. Board member Mrs. Mottson and others emphasized that Chandler Unified families list more than 60 home languages in district records and that the district’s communications channels (including ParentSquare and the district website) can automatically translate embedded content if families have chosen a preferred language setting.
After discussion about completion time, the number of open‑ended questions, and translation logistics, the board rejected a motion to adopt HYA’s proprietary instrument when the proposal to pay for HYA translations beyond English and Spanish did not win support. The board then voted (roll call) 3–2 in favor of the modified Google survey as the primary stakeholder instrument. The motion passed with votes in favor from Mrs. Mendoza, Mrs. Mottson and President Serrano; Mr. Rohrs and Mr. Heap voted no.
HYA will continue as the district’s search firm and will host outreach, weekly check‑ins with the board liaison and in‑person forums; the district’s search webpage is live with the position announcement and a timeline. Staff said they will translate and distribute the chosen survey via ParentSquare, district web pages and other channels and will schedule public listening sessions and recorded forums during the public engagement window beginning Oct. 27.
Ending: The board’s vote resolved a central procedural choice for the superintendent search; HYA and district staff will move forward with outreach and with a leadership profile report due to the board in mid‑November.
