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Collaborator sought for new schools chief

JANESVILLE — “Works well with others.”

A teacher might write that comment on a report card. But it’s also what Janesville wants in a new schools superintendent, according to two superintendent-search consultants.

Superintendent headhunters Gerald Chapman and John Barbini spoke to the school board Tuesday. They presented their findings after interviewing local residents and school employees and reviewing survey forms.

The responses showed that most people want a superintendent who is approachable, caring, collaborative, honest, a good communicator, a good listener, fair, visible in the schools and decisive after considering input from everyone.

“In addition, the new superintendent should possess the skills to inspire and motivate others,” according to the consultants’ report.

Board member Debra Kolste said those things sound like what any district might want in a superintendent. Chapman said that’s not necessarily true.

Smaller districts often look for specific skills because the superintendent fills more hands-on roles in finance or curriculum, for example. In larger districts, the traits most prized include things such as the ability to work with a team and build consensus, the consultants said.

The board did not vote but seemed satisfied with the list of characteristics.

Chapman and Barbini said they will now start their search, using the characteristics to develop a slate of candidates. An ad will be placed in the magazine Education Week. The ad is for “…a dynamic superintendent who will provide instructional leadership. The board desires a collaborative leader with outstanding communication skills.”

The board hopes to name a new superintendent by late March.

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Information about the Janesville School District search for a new superintendent to replace the retiring Tom Evert will be posted on the consultants’ Web site, www.hyasupersearches.com.