La Crescent‑Hokah board chooses lower‑cost MSBA package for superintendent search

The La Crescent‑Hokah School Board voted to retain the Minnesota School Boards Association (MSBA) for a tier‑one superintendent search package, a lower‑cost option the board estimated at roughly $2,900.

Board members debated whether to pay for the more comprehensive, higher‑cost MSBA option that includes wider community engagement and additional on‑site involvement. Several members said the district’s administrators and board can handle many tasks internally and preferred conserving funds.

The administration described differences between the two MSBA packages, noting the more expensive option adds deeper community coordination and interview facilitation. Board members said they could draw on files and processes from past searches if they limit the number of finalists and tailor interview questions.

One board member emphasized the legal and administrative workload of a superintendent search, noting MSBA helps ensure uniformity in candidate questioning and compliance. Others argued the district has enough local capacity—if board members commit time—to manage a leaner search.

The motion to proceed with the MSBA tier‑one package passed by voice vote; the transcript records a voice vote and the motion’s passage but does not record a roll‑call tally. The board agreed administrators will coordinate tasks and that board members must commit to participating in interviews and community input steps.

Next steps: administration will engage MSBA under the chosen package, outline the timeline and candidate recruitment approach, and return to the board with dates for interviews and opportunities for community input.