Harford School Board Starts Search for New Superintendent

The Board of Education of Harford County announced Tuesday that it has begun the search process for a new superintendent.

When the previous superintendent announced last spring that he was leaving to pursue other opportunities, the school board appointed Interim Superintendent Barbara Canavan, whose contract runs until July 1, 2014.

The first step in the process of searching for a new superintendent is developing criteria for the ideal candidate, according to a statement from the school system.

The board has invited the public to weigh in at three public forums next month:

• C. Milton Wright High School: 7:30–8:30 p.m. on Wednesday, Dec. 18
• Harford County Public Schools A.A. Roberty Building: 10:30–11:30 a.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19
• Havre de Grace High School: 7:30–8:30 p.m. on Thursday, Dec. 19

There will also be an online survey that people can submit until Jan. 10, 2014. The survey is located here, and responses will be anonymous.

In addition, the school board is planning small, invitation-only focus groups including select government officials; school system leadership, support staff and central office staff; principals, teachers, parents and students; school system employee association leadership; and business and community leaders.

"It is imperative that we have a fair and equitable process to ensure that the most qualified candidate is selected to continue the great tradition of excellence in Harford County Public Schools,” Board of Education President Nancy Reynolds said. “We are looking forward to engaging the community in this process.”

What qualities do you want in Harford County's next superintendent? Tell us in the comments!