Forest Hills Board hires Ben Kirby as superintendent after finalist interviews

The Forest Hills Board of Education voted March 19 to hire Ben Kirby as the district’s next superintendent, contingent on successful contract negotiations, following a special meeting that featured 75‑minute interviews with two finalists.

Kirby, who delivered a 20‑minute presentation of a 90‑day transition plan, told the board his early work would focus on “listening and learning” across students, staff, parents and community partners before recommending action. “Leaders must first seek to understand, then to be understood,” Kirby said during his presentation.

In a nut graf, board members said they chose Kirby because of his detailed, evidence‑based approach to district priorities, emphasis on student voice and relationship building, and experience managing districts with multiple high schools and ongoing bond projects. The board made the appointment by roll‑call vote after a deliberation in which members and community feedback were…