Board advances five finalists for Churchill County superintendent interviews
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Summary
Churchill County School District trustees voted unanimously to advance five candidates for preliminary superintendent interviews after consultants reviewed a pool of 13 applicants; the board discussed site visits, community forums and logistics ahead of interviews scheduled for March 26.
The Churchill County School District Board of Trustees voted unanimously to approve five finalists for preliminary superintendent interviews after a presentation by search consultants.
Dr. David Jensen, one of the consultants conducting the search, told the board: "We received a total of 13 applications for the superintendent position." He said two applicants withdrew prior to screening and the search team conducted 45–60 minute screening interviews and due diligence on the remaining 11 candidates before recommending five finalists.
The board heard brief profiles of the five recommended finalists. Jensen introduced Natalie Burgess of North Las Vegas, an associate superintendent of academics at Legacy Traditional School and a former Clark County principal; Levi Collins, superintendent in Cascade, Montana; Blake Cooper, principal at Fernley Intermediate School in Lyon County; Michael Walker, currently serving as assistant superintendent in Churchill County School District; and Brett Zanto, principal in Helena Public Schools in Montana. Jensen said the finalists "most closely aligned with the specific leadership profile, district context and current needs identified for the Churchill County School District."
Board members discussed the chronology and format for interviews and stakeholder involvement. The chair asked for a recap of next steps leading up to March 26; Jensen said, if the finalists are accepted, consultants and district staff would set up the interview format, which could include site visits, panels, community forums and a posted application packet so trustees and the public can review full materials before interviews. Several trustees urged that finalists be given opportunities to visit schools and meet staff and community members so candidates can assess fit and stakeholders can provide feedback.
Trustee McFadden moved to approve the five finalists; Trustee Whitaker seconded the motion. After brief discussion the chair called the vote and announced the motion carried, saying, "It is unanimous." The board did not identify any changes to the recommended slate and directed staff and the consultants to proceed with scheduling and logistics.
The meeting adjourned after a brief opportunity for public comment.
