Haysville board hires KASB to run superintendent search, approves $6,500 contract

The USD 261 Board of Education in Haysville voted unanimously to hire KASB’s leadership services to conduct the district’s superintendent search, approving a $6,500 contract plus travel expenses to begin recruitment immediately.

Dr. Miller, who identified himself as part of KASB’s leadership services department and introduced a five‑phase search guide provided to the board, said the posting would go live the next day and KASB would supply customized marketing materials and a candidate questionnaire. "It's always a pleasure to be in Haysville," Dr. Miller said while outlining the process, which includes community surveys, focus groups, screening and executive‑session review of finalists.

The board agreed to use both a public survey and in‑person focus groups to shape desired leadership characteristics. Dr. Miller said the survey would be ready for distribution within about a week and remain open for two to three weeks; he proposed a focus‑group day and an executive‑session presentation of candidates in mid‑January. He set the application period to close Jan. 9 and said he had tentatively scheduled the executive‑session candidate presentation for Jan. 19.

On the contract terms, Dr. Miller told the board: "Our contract for this service is $6,500, along with travel expenses." He also described a one‑year warranty: if a hire does not work out within the first year and the district and consultant have followed the agreed process, KASB will repeat the search at no charge.

Board members pressed on recruitment scale and logistics. When asked how this candidate pool compares with 2021, Dr. Miller estimated there are more searches statewide this year but predicted a solid applicant slate for Haysville given its Wichita‑area location. He said KASB typically narrows applications to a recommended slate of three to five finalists after screening and targeted background checks.

The board discussed whether in‑district residency should be required of the next superintendent. Board member Jennifer said she was "not tied to residency" but wanted a superintendent who is visibly engaged in the community; another member said residency could be negotiable or set with a timeline, such as requiring a move within 18 months.

Following discussion, board member Jennifer moved to hire KASB to begin the search; Kelly seconded the motion. The board voted 7–0 to approve the contract and proceed with the posting, survey and focus groups. The meeting adjourned afterward.

Next procedural steps: KASB will post the vacancy as scheduled, distribute the survey option to the community, run focused community sessions, screen applicants and return to the board in executive session with full candidate files and recommendations.