The search for Perry’s new superintendent continues as the Perry School Board recently announced it has selected six semi-finalists for an initial round of interviews.

Current Perry Superintendent Clark Wicks previously announced his retirement for the end of the school year. Board President Linda Andorf says Grundmeyer Leader Services (GLS) has been assisting the board with the superintendent selection process.

A survey was conducted with responses coming in from staff, students and the community. Andorf adds that the survey produced 289 responses, with 143 of those coming from students. 

She details that the survey identified seven desired skills and qualifications for Perry’s next superintendent, including integrity-driven accountability; approachable and inclusive presence; cultivating a supportive culture and well-being; recruiting, hiring, and retaining talent; engaging community and families; empowering leadership and growth; and managing district resources.

Andorf explains that interview questions will be developed from those identified characteristics in order to help the district identify the person with the best fit for Perry Schools.

She shares that the board reviewed the applicants during a special meeting on February 25. The district received 26 applications for the superintendent position, including six from out-of-state and 1 from Canada. Andorf says the board was impressed with the highly qualified pool of applicants. Of those, 11 are currently superintendents with the remainder serving as principals. The board narrowed the field down to six semi-finalists. 

Andorf details that the board and GLS will hold a virtual screening interview with each semi-finalist on Wednesday, March 4. The 25-minute interviews will include eight questions, with two of those being given in advance and the rest will be blind. The board will narrow the field to three candidates at the conclusion of the evening.

Andorf adds that the final round of interviews will be held on Wednesday, March 11. Those will be held in-person and will include a tour of the district and the community.