Aspiring Superintendents Workshop 2014

This past week KASB hosted the annual Aspiring Superintendents Workshop.  20 enthusiastic educational leaders were in attendance.  The day consisted of multiple learning opportunities for future district level leaders.

The morning session began with an hour long overview of the Performance and Efficiency Committee (PEC) report.  USD 512 Shawnee Mission Superintendent Dr. Jim Hinson led the discussion and review.  The PEC discussion allowed the aspiring superintendents a glimpse into the amount of information and the many tasks a superintendent must take responsibility for as a district leader.

Dr. Brian Jordan lead a guided reflection with attendees to help them see where they strengths and weakness lie as a leader.  A clear understanding of personal strengths and matching leadership skills to districts needs was emphasized and discussed.  The aspiring superintendents worked through several leadership scenarios directed at the role of the superintendent and their relationship with the school boards.  The small group discussions allowed the aspiring superintendents to share knowledge and garner new insights.   

Mr. Gary Sechrist followed up with the nuts and bolts of the search process.  Mr. Sechrist provided the aspiring superintendents insights into developing quality application letters, and resumes.  He explained the process that KASB search consultants use with the boards to determined their desired characteristics of a new superintendent, and how those characteristics are used as part of the screening process.  Participants were given key considerations as they determine where they should apply for superintendent positions and the interview process.  KASB emphasized that they work for Kansas school boards but the goal in the search process is to help each district find the best leader for their community.

The role of the superintendent requires leaders to be able to manage change, focus on leadership and create a purposeful community.  The superintendency also needs individuals that  possess the skills to manage the financial aspects of the district.    Districts in need of a new superintendent are alway searching for the best candidate to fulfill the above requirements.  The Aspiring Superintendent workshop was the beginning for many of these potential candidates to prepare themselves for the position.