RSU 28/MSAD 28 hires Dr. Leanne Neil as superintendent after national search

The RSU 28 / MSAD 28 school board voted Wednesday to hire Dr. Leanne Neil as the district's new superintendent, moving forward after a months‑long national search and community listening process.

A board member formally moved the hire, saying, "I would like to move that we hire Leanne Neil as superintendent in accordance with the contract and terms discussed in executive session." The motion was seconded and approved, and board members introduced Dr. Neil, who joined the meeting virtually.

The board described a hiring process that included a national recruitment, a hiring committee of board members, parents, educators and administrators, and finalist visits in which candidates spent a day in district schools. "I'm thrilled that Dr. Neil has agreed to come to Maine from Kansas," a board member said, noting she brings "more than 30 years of experience as an educator, as a building school building leader, and as a district leader." Dr. Neil responded, "Thank you."

Why it matters: The superintendent post will set district priorities for instruction, budgeting and community engagement. Board members said the selection was informed by community surveys and listening sessions and that the district will share a written message and a video to introduce Dr. Neil to staff and families.

Details: The board said it will schedule several opportunities this spring for Dr. Neil to meet with students, staff and community members. The district also plans to distribute written materials and a video profile so teachers, families and residents can learn more about the superintendent's background and priorities.

What happens next: Administrators said they will circulate more information to staff and parents and organize in‑district visits and meet‑and‑greet sessions in the coming months. The board did not provide contractual financial terms in the public discussion; those were referenced as "terms discussed in executive session."