The citizen committee finished interviewing the two superintendent candidates. It was requested that all discussions that took place during the last two days were to remain confidential (kind of like a closed session of a sub-committee of the board with an agenda that never got posted). (Some wiseguy in the group questioned me with "Since when do you follow instructions?" Must know me too well.)
Being respectful of the request to the best of my ability, I am issuing the following statement:
Both candidates had their strengths and their weaknesses. One had a very strong financial background, the other had was more of a people person. Both had a good grasp of the impact of state laws on the budget. Both were motivated to raise the standards of education our children were receiving by thinking outside the box and being creative. I could go on, but I think I would only be restating what Dan Warren said, "these are two very qualified candidates".
In my mind, the decision the board must make Thursday night will be a tough one. The board must, in a very large way, decide what direction it wants to go over the next several years. The board should have a much better feel for each of the candidates that we got with an hour each (without any background prior to meeting with the candidates).
That being said, the success or failure of either candidate is directly related to the board, the board's goals and just where the board wants to lead this district and the ability of each candidate to deliver on what they stated during their respective interviews.
I am thankful for this opportunity to meet with the candidates.
Chris Lufter, President
There is still no agenda posted at the school district's website for a Thursday night meeting.
