Easy as 1-2-3-4-5
The superintendent search process can be divided into five phases, with the primary responsibilities of the search consultant and the school/search committee clearly delineated. MASC consultants work with the school committee to design as flexible a process as possible while advising the School Committee on legal and regulatory consequences. The chart below outlines the responsibilities and progress of a typical superintendent search from start (Phase 1) to finish (Phase 5).
Note: Key school committee roles are in green.
Phase 1
Leadership Profile Development
- Identify success factors, major issues, expectations
- Develop job descriptions
- Approve leadership profile
- Conduct focus groups
- Report to School Committee
- Approve selection Criteria
- Compile salary and benefit data
- Prepare publicity materials
Phase 2
Candidate Recruitment
- Advertise vacancy
- Build candidate files
- Coordinate nominations and applications
- Conduct reference checks on applicants
Phase 3
Candidate Screening
- Screen candidates against selection criteria
- Build candidate files
identify semi-finalist candidates - Inform successful candidates and schedule interviews
- Deliver successful candidates to School Committee
- Inform unsuccessful candidates
- Provide orientation and assist search committee
- Select finalists
Phase 4
Committee Evaluation of Finalists
- Assist School Committee in preparation for finalist stage and schedule interviews
- Conduct reference checks on finalists
- Assist Committee in preparation for site visits and final interviews
- Conduct site visits
- Conduct final interviews
Phase 5
Appointment
- Select next Superintendent and announce appointment
- Inform other finalists
- Assist School Committee in contract preparation
- Negotiate contract and announce agreement
- Close search and process materials
- Assist with transition to new leadership