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Board split over RFP versus appointment in superintendent search
Summary
Board members argued whether to appoint an internal candidate or run an RFP to hire a search firm; some members urged speed to get a leader in place, others prioritized community outreach and a transparent procurement.
Board members at the Red Clay special meeting voiced sharply different views about how to find a permanent superintendent. Some members argued for swift action to place someone who can "hit the ground running," while others said the board must first gather meaningful community input and then decide whether to issue an RFP or appoint a candidate.
Devin Henson pushed for speed, saying the district may not have time for a lengthy national search: "I just don't think that we have the kind of time... there's gonna have to be a 3 to 5 year learning curve, and I just don't think that our community is gonna be that patient." Other board members countered that a rushed appointment risks a poor fit and urged due diligence and outreach to rebuild community trust.
Mister Matthews and several colleagues discussed re-using local partners such as the University of Delaware because they are familiar with the district, but also critiqued a sample 45‑page RFP as excessive. Dr. Bridal and board members noted procurement rules and thresholds that affect whether a full RFP is required. The exchange concluded with agreement to hold town halls to gather guidance before making a final choice on process.
The meeting did not decide on a final hiring mechanism; the scheduled town halls will be used to collect community preferences and inform a subsequent board decision.
