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Board deadlocks on sending incoming CTE director to superintendent-prep academy
Summary
Trustees tied 3-3 on a $2,172.36 request to sponsor Brian Sherman’s attendance at a Michigan Leadership Institute superintendent-preparatory academy; supporters said the training builds leadership capacity, critics warned the district may subsidize a outsider’s path and set a precedent.
The Clintondale Community Schools Board voted on whether to pay $2,172.36 for Brian Sherman, the district’s incoming CTE/Innovation director, to attend the Michigan Leadership Institute (MLI) Superintendents Preparatory Academy.
Mr. Sherman told trustees he was recommended by his prior superintendent and by the Michigan Association of Superintendents and Administrators and that the MLI academy is a common next step for educators preparing to pursue superintendent roles: “I was hand selected by MASSA…this is the next logical step for someone that may want to go into the superintendency down the road,” he said.
Several trustees raised procedural and policy concerns. Some said the application packet required a nomination letter from a superintendent and asked whether Clintondale — rather than the recommending district — should pay. One trustee asked whether approval would set a precedent allowing other administrators to request district-funded preparation not directly tied to their current duties.
“I have a challenge with this because it seems like we are supporting a superintendent prep for someone that may not be our superintendent in the future,” said Ms. Wilson. Other trustees supported the motion as an investment in leadership that could benefit the district and noted Mr. Sherman would report back to the board after each session.
After extended discussion about nominee selection, deadlines, mentorship requirements and district benefit, the motion to approve payment was tied 3-3 and therefore failed.
Trustees who supported the request said the academy offers networking and governance training that could help administration; those opposed said the board needed clearer documentation on application steps and the source of funds before approving the expense.
No further action was taken on the item at the meeting.
