The next step in the superintendent hiring process takes place Monday for the Mid-Prairie School Board. The Board, along with the help of consulting firm Grundmeyer Leadership Services (GLS), narrowed the pool of candidates from eight semi-finalists to three finalists in late April. The three vying for the position included current Clear Creek-Amana Associate Superintendent Matt Leeman, Fairfield High School Principal Brian Stone and Solon High School Principal Zach Wigle. Following the announcement of finalists, Leeman has removed his name from consideration due to timing and changes with his current position.

In his time with Fairfield, Stone has focused on communication with staff, students and community members while providing monthly updates to board members. He has also coordinated conferences, worked to implement new professional development initiatives and provided teacher feedback through classroom visits and walk-throughs. He has also served as high school principal and activities director with the Pekin School District and worked as a middle school social studies and math teacher.

While with the Solon district, Wigle has ensured all content areas have a guaranteed and viable curriculum by prioritizing standards. He has also led a group of junior and senior peer leaders, led a shift to a blended learning model in classrooms and oversaw the highest ACT composite score in school history. He has also served as Solon’s intermediate school principal and special education teacher as well as high school principal with the Keokuk District.

The two remaining candidates will participate in final interviews Monday with a group of 40 community members and district stakeholders. The new superintendent will begin work in their position July 1st.