With Superintendent's Resignation, Tesei Questions Hiring Process

GREENWICH, CT — Dr. Jill Gildea, superintendent of Greenwich Public Schools for only one academic year, announced her resignation Friday to become superintendent in Park City, Utah.

She is the 12th superintendent in Greenwich over the past 20 years, and First Selectman Peter Tesei is asking why? What is it about the Greenwich school system, Board of Education or search process that has superintendents leaving at a rate of better than one every two years?

Tesei, who is not a member of the Board of Education, issued the following statement Friday wishing Gildea the best, but also urging the board to reexamine "its policies, procedures and processes" as it relates to the hiring of superintendents and beyond.

The Greenwich Board of Education stated that it would begin another search for a new superintendent immediately.

“I have enjoyed the collaborative working relationship that Dr. Gildea and I have developed during the past months. While I understand her decision to leave Greenwich, I certainly am disappointed. I wish her well in her new professional endeavor in Utah and am glad that she has agreed to stay on through the summer to assist with the school leadership transition.

“Dr. Gildea is the 12th superintendent to lead Greenwich public schools in the last 20 years. The fact Greenwich has been unable to retain a Superintendent for the long-term, is indicative that something is structurally, and perhaps philosophically, wrong with the processes employed by the Board of Education. It is my hope and desire that the Board of Education will review its policies, procedures and processes and be able to identify what needs to be done to bring long-term stability in the leadership of our school system.”

Photo: Greenwich First Selectman Peter Tesei. Photo credit: Town of Greenwich