District 186 school superintendent Dr. Walter Milton leaves Springfield having disappointed a lot of people. (See Board games, Feb. 28, 2013.) The new District 186 board met May 3 with parents and other community members to discuss what each wanted in a new superintendent, which opinions will guide the search for candidates. Fair-minded critics have to ask, Are the expectations of a superintendent these days extravagant?
According to the SJ-R, one board member wants a superintendent who’s going to be a good leader, is fiscally responsible and has a vision. Another wants a superintendent who will be open and fair and will assure that the district hires highly qualified teachers. A third said he would like to see a candidate with a strong background in overseeing an urban school district with a diverse population, A fourth said he wants someone who can communicate with school personnel and community and social service agencies — someone who not only has big ideas but knows how to plan for and determine the feasibility of their implementation.
Lots of luck coming up with a compensation package that will lure to Springfield a candidate who’s likely currently employed at the right hand of God.
This article appears in May 9-15, 2013.
