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Lincoln County board to advertise superintendent opening; interviews set for January
Summary
After public comment and board debate, trustees voted to advertise the superintendent position both internally and externally, with interviews scheduled to start in January 2025; the board discussed costs, job description and salary range and set a follow-up meeting to finalize advertisement materials.
The Lincoln County School District Board voted Oct. 16 to advertise the district’s superintendent position both internally and externally and set interviews to begin in January 2025.
The decision came after a public hearing on the hiring process and extended discussion among trustees. President Wade Poulsen told the board it had received a proposal from former superintendents estimating an external search would cost about $18,000 plus travel and advertising, with total expenses likely near $25,000. Trustee Ann Smith moved to begin advertising internally and externally; the motion passed with Poulsen opposed and Trustee Patrick Kelley abstaining.
Public commenters urged the board to prioritize continuity and student outcomes. “I’m not looking for a new program. I’m looking to go with what we’re already doing,” said public commenter Sherry Spencer, who asked the board to consider candidates’ vision, leadership and community engagement. Other residents urged the board not to limit the pool. “It doesn’t hurt to go and see who is qualified both inside and outside,” said Jake Finlinson.
Board members expressed a range of views. Trustee Andy Free said he favored holding interviews in January to include incoming board members and to protect the process from perceived bias. Trustee Poulsen said he prefers giving internal candidates a first opportunity but agreed the board should move the search forward rather than delay. Trustees agreed that the district needs an updated job description, a salary range and a draft advertisement; Teel said the board will consider those items at an upcoming meeting on Nov. 13.
The board directed staff to prepare the job posting and recruitment materials. The public will be able to observe the interview process when it takes place in open session, the board said. Next steps include finalizing the job announcement, setting application deadlines and publishing the advertisement both within the district and on external platforms.
