by Colin Criss Weekly Student Correspondent
The Town of Webb School District is currently in the process of choosing a new Superintendent following the retirement of Don Gooley on January 31; and though the decision rests solely with the Board of Education, it has asked for help from the community as well as the student body in determining the next appointee.
This request gave about a dozen students, including myself, the opportunity to interview the Superintendent candidates On Wednesday, January 4.
The format for the interviews was simple: one candidate at a time facing the intimidating panel for 45 minutes.
The students asked them about specific plans for the future and how they would address a variety of hypothetical problems.
The student panel did a fine job posing questions that were thoughtful and appropriate.
A large concern in our group was the lack of growth in enrollment and the possibility that certain classes stood to be eliminated.
The student panel indicated they would like the eventual superintendent to give a focus to minimizing any damage that might result from downsizing the course strucbusinessture.
The students hope the eventual appointee will also bring ideas for bettering the availability of elective and advanced courses.
All three candidates conveyed a strong desire to work toward solutions in a fiscally feasible way, depending on the available budget.
Another issue brought up by the team of interviewers was a need to have someone in charge who was well connected to our community, as well as the student activities, clubs, and sports.
All the candidates concurred, and their participation in this student interview showed an understanding of the role of school superintendent in our community.
The candidates indicated they would work closely with the students to solve issues around the school.
It was the consensus of the student panel that the woman and two gentlemen interviewed were each enthusiastic, focused, and dedicated to serving in the position.
They all seemed quite skilled and capable, which means the board of education will have a difficult decision ahead. But given the quality of these candidates, it’s clear that our next superintendent will likely be a very good one.
I wish the eventual appointee all the best, and look forward to getting to know him or her along with the rest of our community.
