MFISD launches superintendent search, schedules public forums
Marble Falls Independent School District board members launched a search for a new superintendent to replace Rob O’Connor (standing) while also scheduling community forums and offering an online survey for the public. File photo
CONNIE SWINNEY • PICAYUNE STAFF
MARBLE FALLS — Marble Falls school officials have launched a search for a new superintendent after hiring a consulting firm, announcing input forums and posting an community online survey.
“We wanted to be very open and transparent about this process and have as much input as we could to guide our decision-making,” said school board vice president Kevin Naumann. “As a board, we felt like it was important to get feedback from the community, from the staff to find out what qualities they’re looking for in a leader of the district.”
After nearly five years with the Marble Falls Independent School District, Superintendent Rob O’Connor will leave at the end of the 2014-15 school year to potentially accept a superintendent’s position at Sharyland ISD in South Texas, where he was named as the lone finalist April 16 in its search for a new leader.
“Dr. O’Connor has been excellent. We’re sorry to see him go,” Naumann said. “He’s had input into the superintendent’s search process up until now. His input is valuable to us.”
Applications for the MFISD superintendent’s position will be accepted through June 10.
On May 4, Marble Falls school board members chose the firm of Walsh, Anderson, Gallegos, Green and Trevino PC as well as educational consultant Gary Patterson to handle the hiring process.
“They provide all kinds of valuable input. They have contacts throughout the state. They’re able to go out and recruit, if necessary,” Naumann said. “They’re able to compile information on the candidates that we will be looking at.
“The firm is a good partner with us to help guide the process,” he added.
Firm representatives have scheduled two community forums, May 19 and 20, for input on traits staff and residents want in a new superintendent.
MFISD staff are scheduled to attend from 3:30-5 p.m. both days in the MFISD central office community room, 1800 Colt Circle. Community members and parents are invited from 6-7:30 p.m. on both days at the same location.
From May 12 through May 18, the public can access a Superintendent Qualities and Qualifications Survey available at www.marblefallsisd.org.
MFISD officials said they have not named an interim superintendent at this time.
connie@thepicayune.com