Following the announced retirement of Superintendent Mark Schneider, the Mid-Prairie School Board has joined with Grundmeyer Leader Services (GLS) to search for his replacement. GLS posted a survey to the Mid-Prairie website this  March that allowed community members to respond with what they deem to be the most important characteristics of a potential fit for the position. Of the 334 total responses to the survey, more than 62% came from parents, with another 23% from teachers.

Those who responded cited strengths for the district as the supportive home school program, skilled and caring faculty and staff, community support, focus on student achievement and opportunities for students. The group of respondents viewed the challenges for the district as staff retention, behavioral issues among students, competitive pay, communication and the need to raise student achievement.

They also replied that the most important skills and qualifications for the next superintendent would include recruitment, hiring and supporting staff, building school and community relations, promoting community care and support for students, modeling the district mission, vision and core values, managing district resources and engaging with families and community members. Important qualities were listed as being approachable, accessible and welcoming, demonstrating ethics and integrity and following through on tasks and responsibilities.

The district is accepting applications through April 9th with finalist interviews scheduled for May 9th. Schneider’s last day with the district will be June 30th.