Finalist Brent Conway responds to committee on safety, special education and district priorities

Brent Conway, a finalist for superintendent of Malden Public Schools, opened his interview at the May 13 special School Committee meeting and responded to committee members’ questions about safety, communication, equity and budgeting.

Conway outlined his career and educational background, then answered the same substantive areas of inquiry posed to the first finalist. Mayor Christenson and committee members asked what led Conway to seek the Malden job and which skills he would bring; Conway described his reasons for applying and the experience he would bring to the district.

Committee members asked for specific examples and approaches. Mr. McCarthy asked Conway to describe his experience implementing school safety protocols; Mr. Gray asked how the superintendent would communicate with students, staff and families. Ms. Rose-Zeiberg pressed on equitable programming for academically advanced students; Ms. Hortie asked about instances when Conway prioritized ethical practice over personal interest. Ms. Macklin asked Conway for measurable goals the committee should use to support and evaluate a superintendent; Conway also was asked about collective bargaining experience, budget development and strategies for recruiting diverse staff.

Conway closed by asking the committee about their goals for the district over the next three years. Ms. Spadafora said a follow-up meeting would be held May 16 with possible deliberations the following week. No hiring vote or selection occurred during the May 13 session.