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Decatur SD 61 launches superintendent search after broad community input; board asked for salary range by Tuesday
Summary
Consultants reported 709 survey responses and 18 focus‑group sessions; top traits for the next superintendent included longevity, strong communication, visibility, and collaborative board relations. The vacancy posting was slated to be posted through Oct. 30 with consultant screenings and a tentative candidate slate in November.
Carmen Ayala of the Illinois Association of School Boards and search consultants presented results from a community survey and 18 focus‑group sessions informing the district's superintendent search.
Jim Helton said the survey had 709 participants (board members, administrators, staff, parents, community members and students). The top stakeholder priorities across groups were: fostering a professional culture for educators focused on engagement and accountability; the ability to work cooperatively and effectively with the Board of Education; clear written and verbal communications; an inclusive and safe school environment; and rigorous curriculum and data‑driven continuous improvement.
Focus groups reinforced a desire for longevity (community members repeatedly cited the importance of hiring a superintendent who would remain five to eight years), high visibility in schools and neighborhoods, and strong community presence. Consultants recommended posting the vacancy promptly with a salary range to be provided by the board, a posting window through Oct. 30, virtual screenings, a closed‑session candidate slate on Nov. 11, and first and second round interviews in mid‑November. Consultant materials described optional stakeholder interviews with finalists.
The board was asked to provide a salary range and any edits to the vacancy announcement by the coming Tuesday to allow the posting to proceed on the proposed timeline.
Next steps: consultants will post the announcement once the board provides salary guidance, proceed with application screenings, and return with recommended candidates for closed‑session review and subsequent interviews.
