What qualifications would you like to see in a superintendent? That’s the question the Board of Education is asking in creating a candidate profile to use in searching for a new superintendent.
A community survey was emailed this week through district communications and posted on the district website.
Superintendent Dan Takens, who has served in the role for 11 years, announced in August that he is retiring Dec. 31. The board also plans to host community meetings to create the profile. Kent ISD Superintendent Ron Caniff and consultant Mike Washburn, former superintendent of Forest Hills, will assist with meetings
Community meetings are:
- 6:30PM-7:30 p.m.Thursday, Sept. 12 at Brown Elementary School, 8064 Byron Center Ave. SW.
- 6:30PM-7:30 p.m.Tuesday, Sept.17, 2019 West Middle School, 8654 Homerich Ave SW.
“The board is stressing transparency,” Takens said. “We want to make sure the community is part of the process,” he added, noting that input is welcome from all community stakeholders.
The board will discuss takeaways from the survey and future steps at its 5:15 p.m. Monday, Sept. 23 work session.
“We value the community’s perspective and we are elected by the community and want their input about the direction we should go,” said Board President Marty Phelan.
The board will also determine how broadly to search for candidates in the state, nation or internally.
“I would anticipate there would be a lot of interest in the position. Byron Center is a great place to be,” Takens said.
Phelan said the board could possibly hire a superintendent to be in place by Jan. 2 if there is a stand-out candidate. Another option is to name an interim superintendent with the ultimate goal of having someone in place no later than May 1, he said.
‘We want to make sure the community is part of the process.’ — retiring Superintendent Dan Takens
Takens said he feels good about leaving the district in a good place, and is proud of its strong culture and high achievement. “You just kind of know when you know,” he said, about retiring. He said he’s ready to explore new pathways.
“This job is 24-7, 365 days a year,” he said. “I’m looking forward to that next chapter. … I always felt like it was my calling from God to serve.”
