Montclair Schools Continue Superintendent Search

The Montclair Board of Education continues its search for a new district superintendent in the wake of the departing Penny MacCormack, who abruptly announced her resignation on Feb. 18. [See related story]

The superintendent search comes in the midst of district-wide concerns about a potential multi-million dollar school budget deficit and possible property tax increases.

Earlier this week, the board sent a message to families and staff about the search:

“We would like to update you regarding the selection of an interim Superintendent for Montclair’s Public Schools.

“As Montclair is a relatively large district, with a budget in excess of $100 million and a diverse student body, the Board has unanimously decided to seek an interim Superintendent with significant experience. Because of the complexity of operating a district of our size, the Board believes experience is paramount and that a seasoned interim Superintendent will lead to the least amount of disruption to the District’s operations by keeping all of our administrative leaders in place.

“The Board has begun the process to appoint an interim Superintendent, and we expect to select a candidate by the end of the month.

“Once we begin the search process for a permanent Superintendent, we will seek a wide selection of qualified candidates and encourage any current staff members with the requisite qualifications and interest in the position to apply.

“We will also ensure that members of the community have an opportunity to provide input about the qualities they would like in a new Superintendent. We are still determining the best format for obtaining community input and will inform the public once we have finalized a process for community involvement.

“We will update you when we have an interim Superintendent to announce.”

UPCOMING MONTCLAIR BOARD OF EDUCATION MEETING

When: Monday, March 16, 6:30 p.m.

Where: Montclair High School, 100 Chestnut St.

Send Montclair news tips to eric.kiefer@patch.com