TOP FIVE CRITERIA DETERMINED FOR NEW
SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH AT DAVENPORT COMMUNITY SCHOOLS

The consultants of McPherson and Jacobson LLC in collaboration with the Iowa Association of School Boards have completed Phases I and II of the superintendent search process for the Davenport Community Schools.

The Davenport School Board hosted several meetings with district staff, administrators, parents, community members, business leaders and students to gather input into the selection process.  Results of those meetings were included when the board determined its top five criteria for a new superintendent:

• Be a strong advocate for public education and the Davenport Community Schools; have the ability to communicate effectively with all stakeholders
• Be a problem solver willing to pursue unconventional solutions to complex issues, while preserving the stability of the district; provide leadership opportunities and training for administrators to help them become more successful leaders
• Understand that improved student achievement for all students is of paramount importance; provide the leadership to close the achievement gap between students
• Have a strong background in curriculum and instruction; with a commitment to a well-balanced curriculum that includes the arts, science and physical education
• Possess excellent communication skills; a good listener who will listen to all points of view and strive to build consensus; have the ability to communicate effectively both orally and in writing.

The position has been advertised throughout the Midwest, including in Education Weekly, in college and university placement services, on the American Association of School Administrators website and various professional associations.

Applications are due April 30, 2004.  As applications are received, consultants will begin reviewing the completed files and rating candidates against the established criteria. On May 11, 2004, the consultants will meet with the Board to review candidates and assist in the process used to determine final candidates.  At that meeting, interview dates and schedules will be established, and the involvement of a broad representation of both internal staff and community in the interview process will also be established.

After the superintendent has been hired, Dr. Steve Williams and Dr. Tom Jacobson of MacPherson and Jacobson will facilitate a Board/superintendent workshop to assist in the establishment of performance objectives for the new superintendent. The consultants will also provide evaluative procedures and assist the Board as it conducts the six month and one year evaluations of the new superintendent.

The Davenport Community Schools serves the communities of Blue Grass, Buffalo, Davenport and Walcott, Iowa.