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Tangipahoa board authorizes RFP for independent superintendent search after community appeals
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Summary
The Tangipahoa Parish School Board voted unanimously April 21 to authorize administration to issue a request for proposals for a professional superintendent search firm after business and civic leaders urged a transparent, third‑party process.
The Tangipahoa Parish School Board on April 21 authorized administration to issue a request for proposals for an independent superintendent search firm, responding to public calls for a transparent selection process.
The motion, made by Board Member Brett Duncan and seconded by Board Member Toler, directs administration to advertise the vacancy, accept proposals and return to the board with recommendations. Duncan told the board that state rules require public advertising and a 30‑day application window but said a robust, professionally managed search will also build public confidence in the selection.
Business and community leaders urged the board to hire a third‑party search firm during a public‑comment period. Alexis DuCorvier, chair of the North Shore Business Council education committee, told the board the process “expands the candidate pool, and it removes any perception of bias or limitation.” Kevin Davis, executive director of the North Shore Business Council, offered to deliver a resolution from the business council in support of the motion. Melissa Bordelon, president and CEO of the Tangipahoa Chamber of Commerce, cited the district’s recent desegregation work and said, “This moment calls for thoughtful, strategic leadership.”
Board members discussed statutory minimums. Duncan said the basic legal requirements are local and statewide advertising and keeping the application period open for 30 days; he recommended augmenting that baseline with targeted outreach and professional screening.
The board approved the motion by roll call. The clerk recorded unanimous 'yes' votes from Mister Anthony, Mister Westmoreland, Miss Abrams, Miss Dominguez, Mister Duncan, Mister Piazza, Miss Richards and Mister Toler.
Next steps: administration will finalize the RFP language, advertise according to statute, receive proposals and bring a selection recommendation to the board at its scheduled May meeting.
