TEL: (708) 383-0700 WEB: www.oprfhs.org. TTY/TDD: (708) 524-5500 FAX (708) 434-3910

Oak Park and River Forest High School

District 200

201 North Scoville Avenue • Oak Park, IL 60302-2296

TO: Board of Education

FROM: Jeff Weissglass, Board Chair

DATE: May 26, 2016

RE: Superintendent Search Firms

Background

Following Steve Isoye’s announcement last week that he would be leaving the district at the end of June, I

began to think it would be in the district’s best interest to consider hiring an interim superintendent as

soon as possible and to conduct a full and careful search for a permanent superintendent in the fall. I then

learned that it was possible that if we hired a search firm now for the permanent search, that they might be

willing to help with the interim search at little or no additional cost. I therefore decided to move quickly

to begin the process of hiring a search firm.

Summary of Findings:

I heard from several people that three search firms conduct most of the superintendent searches in our

area. I then checked with board members of District 97 and learned that before their search for a

superintendent last year they sent out a request for qualifications through which they ended up inviting

those same three firms for interviews. Given the consistency between the informal information I received

and the outcome of the District 97 RFQ process, I asked the administration on Monday of this week to

contact the three firms and invite them to present to the board at the Thursday board meeting. I only

intended to have the presentations at this meeting if all firms that were interested in presenting were able

to be there. Two of the three firms expressed interest in presenting and were available. The third firm

declined to make a presentation at this time for internal reasons unrelated to the short time frame for the

presentation.

In addition, we have heard from IASB and one other private firm that they would be interested in

submitting a proposal to serve as our search firm. I decided to begin with the firms that had already been

identified and ask during our deliberations after hearing those presentations whether the board would like

to expand the search for a search firm.

We have also learned that IASB provides member districts with a database of potential interims at no

charge, which could help us to try to fill the interim position ourselves, without the use of a search firm.

After hearing the presentations the board could therefore decide to defer hiring a firm for the permanent

search and focus solely on the interim now.

Next Steps

Two firms will be presenting to the board at the board meeting. (We determined the order in which they

will present by a random drawing.) Each presentation will be approximately 20 minutes followed by 10

minutes of answering board member questions. To keep to the time schedule, I ask that each board

member stay to one or two questions. At the end of the presentations, we will then deliberate and decide

TEL: (708) 383-0700 WEB: www.oprfhs.org. TTY/TDD: (708) 524-5500 FAX (708) 434-3910

how to proceed. We have made this an action item on the agenda to provide us with flexibility. Possible

paths forward are:

1. We could move forward with one of the search firms that has presented.

2. We could defer a decision and have board members submit additional questions for the firms to

answer, in writing or at a special board meeting next week.

3. We could decide to invite additional groups to present at a special board meeting next week or at

another time.

4. We could defer the decision on hiring a search firm for the permanent search and carry out the

interim search on our own.

5. Other ideas to be developed during our conversation.

SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH PROPOSAL Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200

Oak Park, Illinois Due Date: May 25, 2016

CORPORATE OFFICE: 708.361.4997

872 S. Milwaukee Avenue, #221 | Libertyville, IL 60048

Debra A. Hill, Managing Director

847.204.0462 or drmomaka29@gmail.com

www.bwpassociates.com

(Email to sisoye@oprfhs.org)

May 24, 2016

Dr. Steven T. Isoye, Superintendent

Oak Park and River Forest High School District #200

201 N. Scoville Avenue

Oak Park, IL 60302

Dear Dr. Isoye and Members of the Board of Education:

We are pleased to provide our proposal to assist you in your search for a Superintendent

for the 2017 school year and an Interim Superintendent for the 2016-2017 school year. BWP &

Associates is a national search firm that will provide you with an experienced search team

composed of Drs. Ronald Barnes, Philip Ehrhardt, Sheila Harrison-Williams, and Anne Noland.

The team is committed to working with you and your community to identify your specific needs

and to seek a group of excellent candidates for your consideration.

BWP & Associates consists of experienced and dedicated consultants who are networked

with educational leaders throughout the country. We offer a high level of expertise and extensive

knowledge for recruiting exceptionally talented people. Our proposal is attached and presents in

detail how we will support you throughout your search process. We encourage you to visit our

website at www.bwpassociates.com to learn more about our search process.

We appreciate the opportunity to submit this proposal. Please feel free to contact us if

you have any questions or if we can assist further as you discuss your search options.

Sincerely,

Dr. Debra A. Hill Dr. Anne Noland Dr. Philip Ehrhardt

Managing Director Co-Lead Consultant Co-Lead Consultant

847.204.0462 630.624.3336 630-514-7003

drmomaka29@gmail.com mhnoland@comcast.net philipehrhardt@comcast.net

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Profile ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

Company Background ---------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

Consultant Search Team -------------------------------------------------------------------- 1

Search Planning and Preparation ---------------------------------------------------------- 1

Candidate Recruitment --------------------------------------------------------------------- 2

Candidate Evaluation ----------------------------------------------------------------------- 2

Superintendent Appointment and Closing of Search ----------------------------------- 3

Consultant Fee and Expenses -------------------------------------------------------------- 3

Payment Schedule --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4

Quality Assurance --------------------------------------------------------------------------- 4

References ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 4

Contact Us ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ 5

Attachments:

BWP & Associates Directory ------------------------------------------------- 6

BWP Search Calendar --------------------------------------------------------- 7

BWP Superintendent Search Flow Chart ----------------------------------- 8

BWP Partial Client Listing ----------------------------------------------- 9-10

Letters of Reference from Previous BWP Clients ------------------- 11-14

BWP Consultant Resumes ---------------------------------------------- 15-20

1

Profile BWP & Associates can successfully recruit excellent candidates for your consideration

for a Superintendent for the 2017-18 school year and a 2016-2017 Interim

Superintendent. When Oak Park and River Forest High School District 200 selects

BWP, it is receiving services from a firm with a history of over 800 successful executive

searches. Our consultants bring both national educational leadership connections as

well as an understanding of what makes an outstanding superintendent. For a

representative list of BWP directors and associates, please see the attached BWP

Directory.

Company Background BWP & Associates grew from the merger of three nationally known search firms:

Harold Webb Associates, PNR Associates, and The Bickert Group, Ltd. BWP traces its

oldest roots to Harold Webb Associates that, in 1977, became the first nationwide

superintendent search firm in the country. PNR Associates conducted leadership

searches in educational and national non-profit organizations since 1984. The Bickert

Group, Ltd., incorporated in 1992, served predominately Midwest school districts.

Through the merger into BWP & Associates, these three firms significantly expanded

their connections and consultant base. BWP’s corporate office is located in Libertyville,

Illinois.

Consultant Search Team If BWP & Associates is selected, Dr. Anne Noland and Dr. Philip Ehrhardt will serve as

co-lead consultants, assisted by Dr. Sheila Harrison-Williams and Dr. Ronald Barnes.

This team will work with the OPRF School Board in its search for a new superintendent

and interim superintendent. Their resumes are attached. Other BWP consultants will

provide networking assistance to the search team.

Search Planning and Preparation We propose a multi-phased search for outstanding candidates for the position of

Superintendent of Schools. Most searches extend over a period of 15 to 22 weeks. (See

attached Search Calendar).

Our consultants will confer with the Board to establish Board control of the search from

the outset. This will be done by:

1. Reviewing Board/consultant responsibilities for each phase of the search (See

attached Superintendent Search Flow Chart).

2. Determining the role of current superintendent, staff members, administrators,

students, district residents, and other stakeholders in the search process.

3. Preparing a detailed search calendar that meets Board’s specific needs.

4. Considering Board options and preferences for a position announcement and

advertisements.

5. Discussing the compensation package to be offered to the new superintendent.

2

6. Agreeing upon a communication plan to keep the Board abreast of the search

progress and the consultants alerted to questions or issues that may arise.

Our process includes individual interviews conducted with each member of the Board to

determine desired qualifications for the position. We also recommend meeting with

representative teachers, administrators, other interested staff, parents, business,

civic/community leaders, and others the Board may designate. In consultation with the

Board, specific leadership profile characteristics for the position will be developed from

the results of these interviews and incorporated into the search advertisement materials.

Announcements of the vacancy will be drafted for Board approval and will be posted as

directed by the Board in thoughtfully selected national and regional publications, as

well as the BWP & Associates website (www.bwpassociates.com). BWP will also

contact our national network of professionals to identify prospective candidates. A

complimentary Internet link from our vacancy announcement and search profile will be

provided to your school district website, if you desire.

Our consultants can provide counsel to the Board about all phases of the search process

including media relations.

Candidate Recruitment BWP & Associates offers a national reach to find a group of excellent candidates for

your consideration with emphasis on your geographic region.

Our experienced and dedicated consultants are networked with educational

leaders, as well as college, university and business leaders, throughout the

country.

BWP team members are active in state, regional and national educational

organizations, and many participate in superintendent academies to train current

and future superintendents.

Our consultant roster includes many successful current or retired

superintendents who offer a high level of expertise about the role of a

superintendent.

Nominations, on-line applications, and candidate credentials will be received and

acknowledged by the consultants and a confidential file for each applicant will be

created and maintained. During this phase of the search, we will communicate with

applicants and conduct preliminary reference checks for the most promising candidates

in anticipation of a possible interview.

Candidate Evaluation At the close of the application deadline, the consultants will carefully review all

candidate materials.

Individuals will be screened using the leadership profile characteristics

established by the Board.

3

Candidates will undergo further background and detailed reference checks by

the search team. As in all phases of the search, we adhere to strict guidelines of

confidentiality.

Our examination of finalist candidates’ backgrounds is discreet, but rigorous,

reaching personal and professional references well beyond those provided by the

candidate.

Our ability to provide considerable information about the candidate beyond that

appearing in the official file is attributable in part to the integrity of our

professional relationships built through the years with educational leaders,

university professors and board members throughout the country.

After vetting all applicants, we will present a slate of candidates recommended for

initial interviews by the Board. The number in this slate usually includes four to six

highly qualified candidates.

When this slate is presented, the consultants will support and assist the Board in the

final stages of the process including:

Preparing the Board for candidate interviews – both initial interviews and

second interviews with finalists – by providing written interview guidelines,

suggested questions, and protocols.

Discussing Board visits to the community(s) of the preferred candidate(s), if

desired.

Suggesting community activities appropriate to introduce finalists, if desired.

Providing any support the Board needs to ensure informative, comprehensive

and successful closure of the search.

Discussing and offering options and recommendations for the Board to conduct

formal background checks of the final candidate(s).

Consultants will be available upon request for counsel to the Board during its

interviews.

Superintendent Appointment and Closing of Search Following finalist interviews, the Board will select a candidate and authorize the terms

of the employment contract to be offered. At the request of the Board, we will assist the

Board and/or its attorney in preparation of a draft contract.

After the successful candidate accepts the offer and appropriate announcements have

been made, we will send letters to all applicants confirming the appointment and

extending the Board's appreciation for their candidacy. Also, we suggest that the Board

president send letters to candidates interviewed by the Board.

Upon request, we will assist the Board in effecting an orderly transition in leadership.

Search team members will be pleased to discuss this with the Board should you be

interested.

4

Consultant Fee and Expenses The consulting fee for our services will be $20,000 plus expenses, which include

creation and maintenance of candidate files, communications to those in the network

and to prospective candidates, postage and telephone charges, clerical expenses, and

consultant expenses.

Reliable estimates for candidates' interview costs and Board travel are difficult to

determine because of mode and distance of travel, and the number of persons involved

are unknown. We are well aware of the dangers of these "hidden" costs as well as the

fiscal restraints with which school districts operate.

Our best estimate of basic search expenses is as follows:

Secretarial support $800 to $1,500

Online survey, if desired $250 to $300

Materials/supplies $400 to $900

Tech support for online applicant access,

if desired $150 to $200

Consultant expenses $1,000 to $3,000

*Consultant travel will depend on the distance traveled and the number of trips

The following options, if incurred, will be billed directly to the Board from the

publisher or through the Firm and are in addition to the above consultant fees and

expenses.

Advertising in national publications; i.e., Education Week, estimated at

$1,000 to $2,000, costs being dependent on variables such as size, layout and

frequency of postings. Generally, there is no cost for regional postings.

Advertising on the American Association of School Administrators (AASA)

website at a cost of $410 to $880, dependent on the number of weeks posted.

Advertising on the ASCD website at a cost of $300 to $900, dependent on

the number of weeks posted.

Payment Schedule Our consultant fee is normally billed in three equal installments:

Upon the signing of the Letter of Understanding,

After the presentation of the slate of semi-finalist candidates,

Upon the appointment of the new superintendent.

Final expenses are billed within 90 days of completion of the search.

Quality Assurance If the new superintendent resigns or is dismissed for cause within twelve months of

commencing duties, BWP & Associates will conduct a new search at no additional cost

to the Board except for expenses.

5

References Our reputation, integrity and effectiveness are important to us. We strongly urge you to

speak with representatives of Boards our consultants have served. A partial list of past

clients and references from recent searches is attached, and a more complete list is

available on our website at www.bwpassociates.com.

Contact Us BWP’s Managing Director, Dr. Debra Hill, will be supporting the consulting team, and

her resume is attached. Questions regarding this proposal may be directed to: Dr.

Debra Hill at 847.204.0462, Dr. Ehrhardt at 630.514.7003, or Dr. Noland at

630.624.3336. We will be glad to provide any further information, if needed.

6

BWP & Associates

Managing Director

Debra A. Hill Retired Superintendent, West Northfield School District 31, Glenview, Illinois; and

Past President of the Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

Directors

Ronald Barnes Retired Executive Director, Indiana School Executive Leadership Academy, and Professor of Leadership &

Policy Studies, Indiana University; Retired Superintendent, Cons. High School District 230, Orland Park, Illinois

Houston Conley Retired Professor of Education, Virginia Tech University; and

Former Deputy Superintendent, Washington, DC, Dayton Public Schools, Dayton, Ohio

Nolan Estes Former Associate U.S. Commissioner of Education (Johnson Administration); and

Former Superintendent, Dallas Public Schools, Dallas, Texas

Mark Friedman Retired Superintendent, Libertyville Elementary School District 70, Libertyville, Illinois; and

Illinois Superintendent of the Year, 2008-09

Anne Noland Retired Superintendent, Forest Ridge School District 142, Oak Forest, Illinois; and

Principal Mentor, DuPage County Regional Office of Education, Illinois

Sandra Sims-deGraffenried Retired Executive Director of the Alabama Association of School Boards; and

Has conducted or assisted with approximately 70 school superintendent searches.

William C. Symons Retired Superintendent, Charlottesville, VA, with over 30 years experience as a school administrator in three

states, which included successful service as a Superintendent in five districts of varying sizes.

Director Emeritus

Paul Plath Retired Superintendent in Springfield, OR, and Yuma Union High School District, AZ. Founder of PNR

Associates, with more than 40 years of service to school districts and 15 years of search service.

Associates

Larry Ascough (TX)

Mary Ann Blaskowitz (SC)

Bruce Brown (IL)

Deborah C. Burdick (AZ)

Kevin Castner (VA)

Charles Coleman (IL)

Mary Conley (MD)

Stanley J. Durtan, Jr. (VA)

Phil Ehrhardt (IL)

Hector Garcia (IL)

Michael L. Gardner (IL)

Steven M. Griesbach (IL)

E. Wayne Harris (VA)

Sheila Harrison-Williams (IL)

Karl Hertz (WI)

Don Hooper (TX)

Joan S. Isenberg (MA)

James T. Jeffers (AL)

Bert B. Kimble (MO)

Eric A. King (IL)

Joan Kowal (FL)

Michael J. Lannon (FL)

Pamela S. Lannon (FL)

Phil McDaniel (IN)

Clem Mejia (IL)

Lee Monroe (SC)

Thomas Mullins (IL)

Jon N. Nebor (IL)

Rubén Olivárez (TX)

Joseph M. Porto (IL)

Guy Schumacher (IL)

Odell Stuckey (SC)

James Tucker (VA)

David VanWinkle (IL)

Nicholas D. Wahl (IN)

Patricia Wernet (IL)

Kathleen Williams (WI)

Susan Workman (IL)

Gary K. Wright (MO)

Ann Wyatt (AL)

Youssef Yomtoob (IL)

7

Search Calendar

Week

1

Week

2

Week

3

Week

4

Week

5

Week

6

Week

7

Week

8

Week

9

Week

10

Week

11

Week

12

Week

13

Week

14

Week

15

Week

16

Week

17

Week

18

Week

19

Week

20

Week

21

Week

22

1. Interview Board members, staff, Publish Publish Publish

community residents, etc. _________ first ad in _______________ second ad in _______ third ad in

Education Education Education

2. Prepare Leadership Profile Week Week Week

3. Begin informal publication of vacancy

4. Approve selection criteria, advertisements, etc.

__________________1. Contact potential candidates: letters,

telephone, network ___________________________

2. Receive applications

Search ends _______ 1. Board interviews initial candidates

2. Board interviews finalists

1. Consultant reviews applications 3. Site visit is scheduled, if desired

2. Consultant interviews applicants 4. New superintendent is selected

3. Selection of preliminary slate 5. Contract signed and publicly announced

4. Background checks _____1. Reception for superintendent

2. Community introduced to supt

5. Determination of interview process Transition activities continue

8

BWP & Associates

Superintendent Search Flow Chart

Board of Education Consultants, BWP & Associates

Approves Selection

of Consultant Interview Board, Staff, Community Representatives

Interviews to determine recommended slate

Develop Leadership Profile

Publicize Search

Publish Vacancy

Utilize National Network to Generate Qualified Applicants

Conduct Background Checks

Review and Screen Applicants

Conduct Reference Checks

Approves Selection

Criteria, Brochure,

Ad Content

Initial Interviews

Interviews Finalist(s)

Formal Background Checks

Extends Offer

Announces Appointment

Superintendent Assumes Position

Assist Contract Development

Present Slate to Board and Prepare

Board for Interviews and Site Visit

Coordinate Announcement

of Appointment

Assist Transition to New Superintendent

Send Letters

of Regret

Site Visits, if desired

9

Partial Client Listing

Niles Township HSD 219 (IL)

Mr. Mark Sproat (O) 847-644-5106

Township High School District 113 (IL)

Ms. Annette Lidawer (O) 847-452-3108

Proviso Twp High School District 209 (IL)

Ms. Theresa Kelly (O) 708-692-5361

Chesterfield County Public Schools (VA)

Ms. Diane Smith (O) 804-356-3548

Hazelwood School District (MO)

Ms. Desiree Whitlock (O) 314-604-2805

Waukegan CUSD 60 (IL)

Mr. Mike Rodriquez (O) 847-417-6134

Belvidere CUSD 100 (IL)

Mr. Rob Torbert (C) 815-222-7247

Hopewell City Public Schools (VA)

Mr. Chris Reber (O) 804-896-2759

Hanover County Public Schools (VA)

Mr. Robert Hundley (O) 804-734-3415

Technology Center of DuPage (IL)

Dr. Doug Domeracki (O) 630-538-5379

Berkeley County School District (SC)

Mr. Jim Hayes (C) 843-261-4105

Capitol Region Education Council (CT)

Mr. Jeremy Grieveson (O) 860-212-6523

Pittsylvania Public Schools (VA)

Mr. Calvin Doss (O) 434-944-5038

Oak Lawn-Hometown SD 123 (IL)

Mr. Joe Sorrentino (O) 708-712-1746

Somonauk CUSD 432 (IL)

Mr. Thomas Nielsen (O) 815-793-0961

O’Fallon CCSD 90 (IL)

Mr. Steve Hellin (O) 618-741-0597

E.C.H.O. Spec. Educ Joint Agreement (IL)

Dr. Creg Williams (O) 708-585-2309

Noblesville Schools (IN)

Mr. Pat Berhoff (C) 317-414-0659

Woodland CUSD 5 (IL)

Mr. Eric Sass (O) 815-257-8753

Troy School District 30-C (IL)

Mr. Mark Griglione (O) 815-351-3399

Hinsdale CCSD 181 (IL)

Mr. Marty Turek (O) 312-543-3036

Alexandria City Public Schools (VA)

Ms. Karen Graf (O) 703-907-9382

Park Ridge-Niles CCSD 64 (IL)

Mr. Anthony Borrelli (O) 847-318-4300

Arlington Heights SD 25 (IL)

Mr. David Page (C) 847-392-4567

MSD Lawrence Township (IN)

Ms. Carol Helmus (O) 317-423-8200

Carmel Clay Schools (IN)

Ms. Tricia Hackett (C) 317-691-6817

Springfield Public Schools (OH)

Ms. Donna Picklesimer (O) 937-299-0857

Mt. Horeb Area School District (WI)

Mr. Dan Ketterer (O) 608-576-8052

Community High School Dist. 94 (IL)

Ms. Katherine Doremus (O) 630-212-7128

Lincolnwood School District 74 (IL)

Mr. Joe Bailey (O) 630-217-6800

Butler School District 53 (IL)

Mr. Alan Hanzlik (O) 630-573-2760

Ripon Area School District (WI)

Mr. Andy Lyke (O) 920-748-3136

10

Gower School District 62 (IL)

Mr. Ryan Asmus (O) 630-978-6232

School District of Jefferson (WI)

Mr. Scott Buth (C) 262-719-0232

Victoria ISD (TX)

Ms. Tami Keeling (O) 361-576-3131

Center Cass School District 66 (IL)

Ms. Alison Murphy (O) 630-985-1284

School District of Shorewood (WI)

Mr. Robert Reinshoffer (O) 414-963-9672

Plano School District 88 (IL)

Mr. Jim Porter (O) 630-267-9175

Diamond Lake School District 76 (IL)

Ms. Lisa Yaffe (O) 847-274-2067

Winnetka School District 36 (IL)

Ms. Nancy Fehrenbach (O) 847-471-8618

Jackson-Madison County Schools (TN)

Mr. Robert Alvey (O) 731-394-7148

Joliet School District 86 (IL)

Mr. Jeffrey Pritz (O) 815-740-3196

Tinley Park CCSD 146 (IL)

Mr. Dean Casper (O) 708-614-4500

Bentonville Public Schools (AR)

Mr. Travis Riggs (O) 479-254-5000

Avoca School District 37 (IL)

Mr. Jeffrey Greengoss (O) 847-269-1774

Monroe County School Corporation (IN)

Dr. Teresa Grossi (O) 812-330-7700

Webster Groves School District (MO)

Ms. Janet Hamill (O) 314-963-7545

Forest Hills School District (MI)

Dr. James Fahner (O) 616-391-2086

11

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Mr. Eric Sass, Board President

Woodland CUSD 5

5800 E 3000 North Road

Streator IL 61364

January 21, 2015

To Whom It May Concern:

It is my pleasure to recommend BWP and Associates to conduct superintendent searches. The

superintendent search was completed in December 2014, and the quality of the search process was

excellent! As a result, the Woodland CUSD 5 board hired an outstanding superintendent who met our

established profile.

The current BWP and Associates consultants, Phil Ehrhardt and Joe Porto, worked closely with our board

members to customize the search process to meet our unique needs. They spent extensive time in

interviewing each of the board members as well as meeting with groups that we identified as stakeholders

of Woodland. Communication with the consultants and school board was ongoing so we were well-

informed throughout the process.

The BWP team effectively generated and identified well-qualified candidates for us to consider. They

prepared the board thoroughly to interview the candidates. Finally, they provided advice and pertinent

information for us to successfully complete the selection of an outstanding superintendent.

Sincerely,

Eric Sass

Eric Sass

Board President

Woodland CUSD 5

14

15

RONALD EDWARD BARNES

2803 Thatcher Court

Bloomington, Indiana 47401 (H) (812)339-8350 (FAX) (866)486-3345 (M) (812)322-7734

Education

1978 Indiana University - Doctor of Education Degree

1968 University of Northern Iowa - Master of Arts in Education Degree

1967 University of Northern Iowa - Bachelor of Arts Degree

Professional Experience

2008 Emeritus Professor, Indiana University

1994 - 2008 Executive Director of the Indiana School Executive Leadership Academy and Professor of

Leadership and Policy Studies at Indiana University

1980 - 1994 Superintendent of Schools, Consolidated High School District 230, Orland Park, Illinois

1972 - 1980 Senior High School Principal, Moline School District #40, Moline, Illinois

1971 - 1972 Assistant Principal, John F. Kennedy High School, Cedar Rapids Community Schools,

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

1970 - 1971 Assistant Principal, Warren G. Harding Junior High School, Cedar Rapids Community

Schools, Cedar Rapids, Iowa

1969 - 1970 Assistant Principal, Webster City High School, Webster City Community School, Webster

City, Iowa

1967 - 1969 Business Education Teacher, Washington High School, Cedar Rapids Community Schools,

Cedar Rapids, Iowa

Current Professional Activities

o Partner BWP & Associates

o Managing Partner of The Bickert Group since 1992.

o Active in North Central Association. Chaired over 20 visitation teams in three states and

Europe.

o Student Activities - Asked by Student Leadership Institute of Indiana to work as a

consultant on student/principal relations.

o Scheduling - Assisted several Iowa, Indiana and Illinois schools in developing student

scheduling alternatives.

o Leadership and Planning - Have worked in Virginia, Iowa, Indiana, Michigan and Illinois

with various organizations giving presentations on leadership and strategic planning.

o Bargaining - Have worked in Michigan, Virginia and Illinois with Boards of Education and

Teachers Associations on collective bargaining.

o Managed numerous superintendent searches in Ohio, Illinois, Indiana, Pennsylvania,

Minnesota, Missouri, Utah and Wisconsin.

Other Professional Activities

American Association of School Administrators

Suburban School Superintendents

Illinois Association of School Administrators (South Cook Chair)

South Cook School Administrators (Past president)

West Cook Superintendents Association (Past president)

Mid-American Association of School Superintendents (President)

Indiana University School of Education Administrative Committee

University of Chicago Education Department Advisory Board

Administrative Agent ESC #7

Member Illinois State Senate Task Force on Mandates

16

Philip M. Ehrhardt 1204 King Edward Avenue

Saint Charles, Illinois 60174

630-514-7003

Indiana University Bloomington, IN Doctor of Education 1982

Indiana State University Terre Haute, IN Master of Science 1977

Indiana State University Terre Haute, IN Bachelor of Science 1974

2007-Present Superintendent Benjamin School Dist. 25 West Chicago, IL

2005-2007 Superintendent Lakota Local Schools Liberty Twp., OH

1991-2005 Deputy Superintendent MSD of Wayne Twp. Indianapolis, IN

1989-1991 Assistant Superintendent MSD of Wayne Twp. Indianapolis, IN

1987-1989 Assistant Superintendent MSD of Decatur Twp.Indianapolis, IN

1981-1987 Assistant Superintendent Avon School Corp. Indianapolis, IN

1977-1981 Assistant Principal Avon School Corp. Indianapolis, IN

1974-1977 Teacher MSD of Wayne Twp. Indianapolis, IN

2001-Present Adjunct Professor at Indiana Univ., Concordia Univ., Aurora Univ.

2010-Present Associate, BWP & Assoc., Educational Leadership Search Consultants

1980-1981 Consultant for Feasibility Studies, Indiana University

American Association of School Administrators (AASA)

Midwest Suburban Superintendents Association (MSSA)

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

Phi Delta Kappa (PDK)

Illinois Association of School Administrators (IASA)

Illinois Association of School Business Officials (IASBO)

Legislative Education Network of Du Page (LEND)

Suburban Superintendents’ Association

Superintendents’ Roundtable of Northern Illinois

EDUCATIONAL AND PROFESSIONAL TRAINING

DJFASKHDFAKDJSH

TEACHING AND ADMINISTRATIVE EXPERIENCE

DJFASKHDFAKDJSH

SELECTED PRESENTATIONS/CONSULTING WORK

DJFASKHDFAKDJSH

PROFESSIONAL AFFILIATIONS

DJFASKHDFAKDJSH

17

Sheila Harrison-Williams, Ed.D. 9540 Bedford Drive, Woodridge, IL 60517 hwsheila@gmail.com 708-935-0471 (C) 630-910-6981 (h)

Education Doctor of Education, 2000, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL

Master of Arts, 1995, Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, IL Bachelor of Arts, 1991, Northeastern Illinois University, Chicago, IL

Professional Experience July 2004-Present Superintendent of Schools, Hazel Crest School District 152½, Hazel Crest, IL January 2002-2004 Superintendent of Schools, Fairmont School District 89, Lockport, IL 2000-2002 Principal, Valley View Elementary School, Romeoville, IL 1997-2000 Principal, Culbertson Elementary School, Joliet, IL 1996-1997 Head Teacher, Sojourner Truth School, Chicago, IL 1991-1996 Teacher/Special Education Case Manager, Laura Ward School, Chicago, IL

Professional Affiliations American Association of School Administrators, Governing Board Illinois Association of School Administrators, Board of Directors At-Large Minority Representative

South Cook Association of School Administrators, Board of Director Illinois Association of School Business Officials, Member National Alliance of Black School Educators, Life Member Superintendents Commission, Secretary Pi Lambda Theta International Honor and Professional Association in Education, Member Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development, Member Illinois Association of Supervision and Curriculum Develop, Member Superintendents Commission for the Study of Demographics & Diversity, Past-President Suburban Superintendent Association, President Superintendents Institute of America, Member South Cooperative Organization for Public Education, Executive Board Exceptional Children Have Options, Executive Board

Publications and Presentation Harrison-Williams, Sheila (2000). “Achieving the Superintendency: Barriers, Strategies, & Maintenance Behaviors” Published Dissertation, Northern Illinois University, DeKalb, IL National Alliance of Black School Educators Conference Presenter, “Achieving the Superintendency: Barriers, Strategies, & Maintenance Behaviors”, 2004-2007 National Alliance of Black School Educators Pre-Conference Activity, “Aspiring Superintendents” Academy Coordinator, 2008-2011 National Alliance of Black School Educators “Aspiring Superintendents” Summer Institute Director, 2011 Evans Newton Incorporated Leadership Symposium Presenter, “Hazel Crest School District: Target Teach and Academic Success”, 2007, 2009 No Child Left Behind State Conference Presenter, “Single-Gender Education: How Boys and Girls Learn Differently”, 2006 Superintendents Commission for the Study of Demographics and Diversity Annual Conference, “Transforming the Paradigm of Educating Children” Host, 2005-2011 Superintendents Commission for the Study of Demographics and Diversity Annual Conference, “Transforming the Paradigm of Educating Children” Presenter, “Achieving the Superintendency”, 2010

Honors and Awards National Alliance of Black School Educators, 2009 Phenomenal Women Award.

The Top Ladies of Distinction/Lincoln Park Chapter, 2010 Crown Jewel Award Celebrating Women in School Administration. Illinois Chapter/National School Public Relations Association, 2010 Distinguished Service Award of Excellence. Illinois Chapter/National School Public Relations Association, 2010 Public Relations Ambassador of the Year Award.

Extraordinary Service and Dedication to Education Award, City of Markham, IL, June 2011. National Alliance of Black School Educators, 2011 Superintendent of the Year Award. American Association of School Administrators, 2012 Dr. Effie H. Jones Humanitarian Award.

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ANNE NOLAND, ED. D. 44 Ridgefield Ln. Cell: (630) 624-3336

Willowbrook, IL 60527 mhnoland@comcast.net

PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE

Director, BWP & Associates, Ltd, Educational Leadership Search Consultants 2013-Present

Associate, BWP & Associates, Ltd, Educational Leadership Search Consultants 2005-2013

Principal Mentor, DuPage County Regional Office of Education 2007-Present

Forest Ridge School District 142, Oak Forest, IL

Superintendent of Schools 2002-2005

Deputy Superintendent of Schools 1999-2002

Assistant Superintendent, Curriculum and Instruction 1994-1999

Director of Curriculum and Instruction 1993-1994

Decatur Public Schools, District 61, Decatur, IL

Principal, Southeast School 1986-1993

Counselor, H. B. Durfee School 1978-1986

Elementary Teacher 1969-1978

PROFESSIONAL MEMBERSHIPS and ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Illinois Association of School Administrators, Member

Breman Area Superintendent Association, Articulation Committee Past President

Illinois Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development, State Board Member, Past President

South Suburban Illinois Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, Past President

Association of Supervision and Curriculum Development, National Board Member

Illinois Administrator Academy, Associate

Parent Teacher Association, Life Member

South Suburban Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development, Lifetime Achievement Award

Decatur Public Schools, Principal of the Year

Breman Youth Commission, Board Member

Youth Advocate Program, Inc. Board, Board President

Decatur Human Relations Commission, Vice Chairperson

EDUCATION

Doctor of Education

University of Illinois, Urbana, IL 1995

School Executive Leadership Program

Master of Arts

University of Illinois, Springfield, IL 1976

Major: Human Development Counseling

Bachelor of Science

Eastern Illinois University, Charleston, IL 1969

Major: Elementary Education

19

D R . D E B R A A . H I L L

517 Dodge Avenue. Evanston, IL 60602 Phone 847-475-1792. Fax 847-475-6950. Cell 847-204-0462. E-Mail

drmomaka29@gmailcom

Objective: Expert Consultant on Educational Issues

Experience

2014 – Present Managing Director – BWP & Associates Search Firm

2008 – Present Associate/Adjunct Professor – Argosy University

1988 – Present Adjunct Professor – National Louis University

2002 – Present Associate – Bickert, Webb, Plath, Executive Search Firm

1990 – Present Independent Educational Consultant

2000 – 2007 Superintendent of Schools – West Northfield SD 31

1999 – 2000 Assist. Superintendent for Staff Development – Evanston SD 65

1992 – 2000 Assist. Superintendent of Curriculum & Instruction – Evanston SD 65

1998 – 1999 Interim Superintendent of Schools – Evanston SD 65

1972 – 1982 Classroom Teacher – Oak Park and Evanston, IL

Education

1993 – Loyola University - Chicago Ph.D. Curriculum/Human Resources

1972 – Northwestern University – Evanston Master of Arts in Teaching

1971 – Northwestern University – Evanston Bachelor of Science

1967 – Englewood High School – Chicago

Accreditations

Numerous workshops as listed

Character Counts participant and trainer

Mennonite Peace Training Program

Teacher Expectations and Student Achievement (TESA) Trainer

Association of School Administrators Trainer

Standards and Assessment – Harvard Professional Education Program

Motorola Leadership Academy

National Louis TPACT – Technology in the Classroom Project

Grant Reader – Illinois State Board

Professional Memberships

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (ASCD)

International Board of Directors, Leadership Council, Nominations Committee Chair,

Legislative Committee, President-Elect, President, Past President

20

Illinois Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development (IASCD)

President, Program Coordinator, State Standards Committee, Leader Mentor Program,

Governance Chair

National Organizations for Math, Reading, Science, and Social Studies

National Alliance of Black School Educators

National Middle Schools Association – Diversity Committee

Phi Delta Kappa

Evanston District 65 Teacher-Administrator Negotiations Team

Evanston Township High School – Curriculum Forum

National Committee – Minority Student Achievement Network

City/School Liaison (Evanston)

Evanston United Way Board

Foster Reading Center Board of Directors

Evanston Arts Council

National Louis University – ISBE – NCATE Review Committee

Golden Apple Awards Nominations Review Committee

North Cook Intermediate Service Center Governing Board (Chair)

Evanston Housing Options Board of Directors (Vice President, President)

Rotary International – Glenview Sunrise Club (Activities Chair)

Evanston Alumnae Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority (Vice President- Grad. Advisor)

I have served in leadership capacities in numerous professional and community organizations, presented workshops and made program presentations at most of the organizations listed.

Awards and Publications

Accepting the Disabled” – Rehab Institute of Chicago (1989)

“Breaking the Mold” – Illinois State Board of Education (1999)

“Stone of Help” – Ebenezer Church (1999)

NAACP Community Service Award (1999)

International Who’s Who of Professional and Business Women (1999)

Distinctive Ladies Community Leadership Award (1999)

District 65 School Board Award of Appreciation (1999)

Sterling’s Who’s Who in American Education (2000)

“Teacher Tips”, National Louis University Newsletter (2000)

National Staff Development Conference (2000)

King Elementary School – Parent Involvement (2000)

Certificate of Appreciation – ASCD (2000-2005) “Service Above Self Award” – Glenview Rotary Sunrise (2004)

North Cook Division – Illinois Association of School Administrators (2007)

“Superintendent of the Year” Nomination - North Cook IASA (2006)

“Dare to be Great” Honoree, IL. Women in Educational leadership, (April 2014)

Letter of Understanding

The Board of Education of Oak Park and River Forest High School District (hereinafter "Board")

and BWP & Associates (hereinafter "Consultants") agree as follows.

1. Representing BWP & Associates as the Consultants, Anne Noland and Philip Ehrhardt,

will co-manage the superintendent search with assistance from Ronald Barnes and Shelia

Harrison-Williams.

2. The Consultants will conduct an immediate interim superintendent search.

3. The Consultants will secure information about the District by gathering data from

interviews with each member of the Board and any other person or groups the Board so

directs. Consultants will share with the Board their findings as to perceived strengths of

the District, peoples' perceptions of issues facing the District, and qualifications those

interviewed believe are important in a superintendent.

4. The Consultants will draft an advertising fact sheet describing the vacancy; the draft shall

be approved by a representative of the Board prior to its publication.

5. The Consultants are directed to advertise the vacancy in regional and national

publications. The fact sheet will be published on BWP & Associates’ website with a

complimentary Internet link to your school district web site, if desired.

6. The Consultants will work with the Board to establish a timeline for each step of the

search process.

7. The Consultants will actively recruit qualified candidates to apply for the position and

solicit nominations from knowledgeable people in the education profession.

8. The Consultants will gather data on candidates applying for the position. Those

candidates best matching the desired profile will be interviewed by the Consultants to

ensure they meet the required criteria. Within ten days of the closing of applications, the

Consultants will present a list of candidates for Board consideration. References of

recommended candidates will be checked by Consultants.

9. All documents produced and received by the Consultants will remain the property of

BWP & Associates. The Consultants shall turn over to the Board copies of all documents

relating to candidates recommended by BWP & Associates at the time the

recommendation is made. With respect to this search, the Board will receive a copy of all

documents sent out on behalf of the Board.

10. The Consultants will inform the Board and other groups, if appropriate, on items related

to search protocols, establishing an interview format, developing interview questions,

interviewing candidates, conducting site visits, and other matters related to the search

process. The Consultants will be available during the search process to advise the Board

on search related issues.

11. The Consultants will make salary and compensation package recommendations to the

Board, if requested.

12. The fee for these consulting services will be $20,000 plus expenses. These Consultant

expenses include development of advertisements, creation and maintenance of candidate

files, clerical expenses, communication to those in the network and to prospective

candidates, postage, telephone/fax/copying/shipping charges and travel. Candidate

expenses will be forwarded as incurred to the District’s Chief Financial Officer or its

designee.

Other anticipated expenses are travel costs for candidates and costs associated with travel

for the Board if it desires to visit school districts of finalists. It is the Board's

responsibility to reimburse candidate interview expenses, such as travel and hotel

accommodations, as arranged. A form will be offered by BWP & Associates for Board

use for reimbursement of candidate expenses, if desired. The Consultant agrees to work

with the District’s designee to ensure candidates are aware of this expectation.

Additional expenses for the search relate to advertising and recruitment. Advertisements

in appropriate regional and national publications and websites are estimated at $1,000 to

$2,000, depending on size, number of advertisements, and where placed. These costs are

not included in the Consultant fee and will be billed directly from the printer, publisher,

website, or through the Consultants.

13. The Consultants' fee will be billed in three installments, the first after the signing of the

Letter of Understanding, the second after the presentation of the slate of finalist

candidates, and the third upon appointment of the new superintendent. Expenses will be

forwarded to the Board as they are incurred.

14. Candidate and Consultants’ final expenses will be billed within 90 days of completion of

the search.

15. The Consultants agree to comply with all relevant federal, state, and local legal

requirements, as well as applicable District financial policies and procedures.

16. As the eventual decision to hire the candidate will be the Board's, the Board hereby

agrees to save, indemnify and hold harmless the Consultants for any decision the Board

makes in the employment process relative to the hiring or failure to hire of any

candidate(s) recommended by the Consultants.

17. If the Board is dissatisfied with the Superintendent selected within two years from the

date of employment of the Superintendent, and if either party dissolves that relationship

by resignation or termination within a two-year period of initial employment, and the

Superintendent selected was one of the slate of candidates recommended by BWP &

Associates, BWP agrees to conduct a new Superintendent Search at no cost to the District

except for expenses.

18. Upon execution of this Agreement, the Consultants shall commence services.

This Letter of Understanding constitutes the entire agreement between the parties with respect to

its subject matter and supersedes all prior agreements, negotiations, representations, or

communications relating the subject matter.

Approved: _________________ Approved__________________

(Date) (Date)

Oak Park and River Forest School District BWP & Associates, Ltd.

__________________________ _________________________

President, Board of Education Consultants

OAK PARK AND RIVER FOREST SCHOOL

DISTRICT # 200

OAK PARK, ILLINOIS

SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH PROPOSAL

SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT

MAY 25, 2016

OAK PARK and RIVER FOREST SCHOOL DISTRICT #200 Oak Park, Illinois

SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH PROPOSAL May 25, 2016

CONTENTS

Letter to the Board of Education

I. Introduction to SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT

II. Recent Illinois References

III. Our Guarantees

IV. The SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT Network

V. Summary of Our Search Services

VI. Details of Our Search Process With Tentative Calendar

VII. Costs of the Search

VIII. Our Strengths

IX. Searches Completed by SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT, 2011-2014

X. How To Contact Us

_______________________________________________________________________________________ 6058 Blake Ridge Rd Edina, Minnesota 55436

952-210-2790 Fax: 877-705-5392 www.schoolexecconnect.com

May 25, 2016 Mr. Jeff Weissglass and the Board of Education Oak Park and River Forest School District #200 201 North Scoville Ave. Oak Park, IL 60302 Dear Mr. Weissglass and Members of the Board of Education:

Thank you for the opportunity to present an overview of SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT and the services we can provide for your superintendent search. Our firm prides itself on providing a quality search process that will result in an effective leader for Oak Park and River Forest School District.

SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT, founded in 2004, is in its twelfth year. Our diverse firm is comprised of more than 60 men and women who have been leaders in quality school districts throughout the country. We have an unusually high degree of success, which we attribute to the quality of our associates, the excellence of our protocols and our ability to find the best educational leaders who match the needs of our clients. In addition, we have finished every search on time and on budget.

We define our success by the longevity of the leaders we place, our repeat services to client districts, and the positive and long-lasting relationships we establish with the boards with whom we work. We will understand your strengths and needs through conversations, focus groups and surveys with the members of the Board and your entire constituency. Our recruitment and interview process aligned to this understanding will result in well-vetted, quality candidates from which to make your selection of a new superintendent. Thank you for considering our proposal for your superintendent search. We would enjoy working with you to achieve the mutual goal of finding great leadership for the students in the Oak Park and River Forest School District. Sincerely,

Kenneth Dragseth Kenneth Dragseth, President SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT

I. INTRODUCTION TO SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT

Hiring the best superintendent to lead Oak Park and River Forest School District #200 is one of the most important tasks you will undertake as a School Board. SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT has a superior record in supporting boards in superintendent searches from the initial planning meeting to a comprehensive community engagement strategy to presenting excellent candidates for you to select your next superintendent. Our search process will be personalized for your District.

Why is SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT so successful? We are one of the leading private search firms because we give school districts the personalized and individualized services each search deserves. Our firm is diverse, comprised of consultants who are knowledgeable and understand the mission of your District is student learning. We are large enough to have an exceptionally strong network, but are small enough to give your District the focus and attention your search needs. If our firm is selected, the following consultants will assist you with your search:

Dr. Kathryn Robbins, Partner, SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT will serve as the Lead consultant and District Liaison if the firm is selected to assist in the search. She was superintendent of Leyden High School District 212 in the West Cook County (IL) region for 14 years, until her retirement in 2013. She was president of the Illinois Association of School Administrators in 2012-2013 and continues to connect with colleagues, peers and superintendent candidates throughout the state. She is a member of the State Charter School Commission, appointed by the Illinois State Board of Education. Over the past few years, she successfully completed superintendent searches in Barrington 200, Danville 118, Community High School District 99 (Downers Grove), La Grange 102, Aptakisic-Tripp 102, Ridgewood 234 (Norridge) and River Grove 85.5.

Contact Information: Dr. Kathryn Robbins, Downers Grove, IL 630-470-5070, krobbins1020@att.net

Dr. Kevin O’Mara, Senior Associate, SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT, serves as Superintendent of Argo Community High School District in Summit IL. Prior to this he served as Principal of the Ridgewood High School in Cook County District 234 after having been an Assistant Principal and a Dean of Students. He is known as having demonstrated success in raising achievement levels for students to the highest potential. He is also an adjunct professor at Concordia University/Dominican University, He has been on several Illinois State Taskforces and is a United States Department of State Fulbright Foundation Awardee.

Contact Information: Dr. Kevin O’Mara, Oak Park, IL

708-516-0793, k.omara@comcast.net

Dr. John Sawyer III, Senior Associate, SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT is the retired superintendent, of Sandridge School District 172 (IL). John Sawyer’s extensive past experiences have included superintendent positions in Houston, TX, North Chicago, IL and West Harvey-Dixmoor District 147, IL. In addition to his superintendent roles and positions in the business world, John has held educational positions with the City Colleges of Chicago, the Chicago Public Schools and the University of Chicago. He was a member of the U.S. Postmaster General’s Stamp Advisory Committee, the Texas Governor’s Professional Practices Commission and the Advisory Panel to the Illinois General Assembly’s School Finance Committee.

Contact Information: Dr. John Sawyer III, Chicago, IL 312-218-1751, jsawyeriii@att.net

II. RECENT ILLINOIS REFERENCES

Barrington CUSD Lake Zurich CUSD 95 Search Year: 2013-14 Search Year: 2014-15 9,000 Students 5,668 Students Brian Battle, Board President Doug Goldberg, Board President 847-217-9702 224-625-4725 bbattle@barrington220.org Doug.goldberg@iz95.org Community High School District 99 River Forest District 90 Search Year: 2015-16 Search Year: 2007-08 & 2011-12 5,055 Students 1,371 Students Nancy Kupka, Board President Ms. Juli Geldner, Board member 630-663-9227 312-401-5225 nkupka@csd99.org Lake Forest Districts 67 & 115 (shared Superintendent) Search Year: 2011-13 3,670 Students Julia Wold, District 67, Board Chair 847-209-0605 Sharon Golan, District 115, Board Chair 847-234-1414

III. OUR GUARANTEES

1. In the event that the first slate of candidates does not include a superintendent the Board wishes to hire, the Consultants will continue to bring candidates forward for actual expenses only until the Board has found a superintendent to whom they wish to offer a contract. No additional consulting fees will be charged.

2. If the superintendent resigns or is dismissed for any reason within twelve months of the starting date, the Consultants will conduct a new search for no additional Consulting Fee. The Board will pay only the actual expenses of the search.

3. The Consultants guarantee that SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT will not recruit your new superintendent for his/her first two contracts.

IV. THE SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT NETWORK

SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT consultants hold or have held leadership and teaching positions in state/national organizations and prestigious institutions. Our national network enables us to recruit qualified candidates throughout the country. The members of our firm work closely together, assuring every search has the outreach necessary to achieve the right match for each district we serve.

Consultant Leadership Positions

Air Force Academy (Admission Selection Committee)

Alliance for Early Childhood Education

American Association of School Administrators (2 past presidents)

ASPEX Solutions (Senior Associate)

Association of State Executives (President)

Association for Supervision and Curriculum Development

Baldrige Award (Examiners)

Carnegie Foundation Consultant

Committee for Educational Rights (Chair)

Ed-Red Suburban Schools Legislative Consortium

Educational Advisory for U.S. Senator Mark Kirk and U.S. Rep. Brad Schneider

FED ED (Co-Executive Directors)

Great Books Foundation

Illinois Association of School Administrators (Two Past Presidents)

Illinois Governor’s Charter School Commission

Illinois Principals’ Association

Mid America Association of School Superintendents (MAASS)

Mid-West Suburban Superintendents Association

Minnesota Association of School Administrators (Executive Director and past presidents)

Minority Student Achievement Network

Mid-west Association of School Superintendents (past presidents)

Midwest Principal Center

Midwest Suburban Superintendents

National Association of Federally Impacted Students

National School Board Association

National Superintendents’ Roundtable

Ohio Schools Council (Executive Director)

Oxford University Roundtable on Educational Leadership, England

Southeastern Wisconsin Schools Alliance (Founder and Executive Director)

Suburban School Superintendents (Triple S)

Sweden’s Education Quality Institute

U.S. Department of Education

Wisconsin Association of School District Administrators (Executive Director and Chair)

Consultant Teaching, Advisory & Administrative Positions

Cardinal Stritch University, Milwaukee

Loyola University, Chicago

University of Minnesota

University of Illinois

Northern Illinois University

University of Wisconsin - Madison

University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee

Maryville University, St. Louis

Western Illinois University

Oakland University, Michigan

Marshall University, West Virginia

Georgia Southern University, Alabama

University of Texas, Austin

Washburn University, Kansas

The Ohio State University

Roosevelt University

V. SUMMARY OF OUR SEARCH SERVICES SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT search protocols include:

Mutually planning and tailoring your process and timelines with the Board

Working closely with your District staff members who assist the Board

Preparing and providing written materials needed for the search process

Conducting focus groups with the Board, staff and community

Creating a community-wide on-line survey

Reporting and interpreting the survey and focus group results to the Board

Assisting the Board in establishing criteria for the New Superintendent Profile

Presenting a slate of qualified and well-vetted candidates to the Board

Preparing the Board for interviews

Preparing the Committees for interviews

Recommending an in-depth vetting process for the final candidate

Assisting the Board with contract issues such as compensation recommendations

Assisting the Board in any way necessary for a successful result

Communicating diligently with the Board and staff throughout the search

Assisting with news releases announcing the new superintendent

VI. DETAILS OF OUR SEARCH PROCESS

Phase A: Opening the Search (August-September)

The search process begins with the signing of the Letter of Agreement.

An initial planning meeting is held with the Board to establish the scope and timeline of services.

Phase B: Creating the New Superintendent Profile (September-October)

Board members are interviewed to understand the qualities, skills and experiences they seek in a new superintendent.

Focus groups are held with selected groups approved by the Board.

An on-line survey, tailored for your District, is designed to allow staff and community members to give input to the search process.

A New Superintendent Profile is developed using the information gained from Board interviews, focus groups, individual interviews and written feedback. The Board approves the New Superintendent Profile.

Phase C: Developing the Candidate Pool (September-October)

The search process and calendar are posted on your District’s website.

The vacancy is advertised nationally and statewide and posted on the SCHOOL EXEC

CONNECT website.

The Consultants accept applications and recruit candidates who match your District’s New Superintendent Profile.

The Consultants screen and interview selected candidates face-to-face using The New Superintendent Profile.

Internal candidates follow the same process as external candidates.

References and Internet checks are conducted on potential candidates.

Highly qualified candidates are presented to the Board. Phase D: Selecting the Candidates (November-December)

The Consultants hold a Board Interviewing Workshop prior to the first interviews.

The Board interviews the recommended slate of candidates and narrows the field to three semi-finalists.

Interview Committee(s) comprised of staff, parents and community members interview the semi-finalists in a structured process and each person gives individual feedback to the board.

The Board may choose to have the semi-final candidates give a short formal presentation.

The Board conducts a second set of interviews using feedback from the Interview Committees in a formal and informal setting.

The Board may choose to make reference calls or conduct a site visit to the final candidate’s home district.

The Board negotiates and takes action on the new superintendent’s contract.

The new superintendent assumes duties on July 1, 2017.

SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT PLAN OF WORK: SUPERINTENDENT SEARCH

BOARD TASKS JOINT TASKS CONSULTANT TASKS

1. PLANNING MEETING

Timeline, Process, Advertising 2. COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT o Focus Groups o On-line Survey o New Superintendent Profile

3. BOARD APPROVAL

New Superintendent Profile

4. CANDIDATE SEARCH o Advertise Search

o Network and Recruit Candidates

o Screen Candidates

o Interview Selected Candidates

o Check References

o Identify and Present Best-

Matched Candidates 6. BOARD FIRST INTERVIEWS o Interview Five to Six Candidates o Select Three to Move Forward

8. BOARD SECOND INTERVIEWS o Candidate Presentation

o Committee Feedback

o Board Dinner/Final Interview

o Final Candidate Selected

5. BOARD WORKSHOP

Interview Strategies

9. FINAL DECISIONS o Background Check

o Board Reference Calls

o Contract Offer Agreement

11. CLOSE SEARCH o Inform All Candidates of the

Board’s Decision

o Assist Board In Any Way

10. NAMING THE NEW SUPERINTENDENT

o Board Action

o News Release

o Introduction to Community

12. NEW SUPERINTENDENT BEGINS DUTIES

7. FINAL PREPARATIONS o Prepare Committee(s) for

Interviews

o Salary Research

VII. COSTS OF THE SEARCH

Consulting Fee: The consulting fee for your search will be $19,500. This fee includes the provision of services for an interim superintendent. It is inclusive and no hourly fees will be charged in addition. The consulting fee may be reduced and negotiated if the level of search services is reduced.

Expenses: Regular expenses will not exceed $1,900. These include, but are not limited to copying, secretarial support, consultant travel expense, candidate travel expense, supplies and interview costs.

Advertising: Advertising costs are determined and paid by the District. Options include:

Print and online advertising in Education Week

Connections to the American Association of School Administrators (AASA) and IASA websites

Posting on the SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT website

E-mail blasts to selected superintendents and contacts throughout the country

Other Expense Information:

SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT will invoice your District twice. First, after signing the Letter of Agreement and, second, upon the appointment of your new district administrator.

After the candidate pool has been presented to the Board, the District incurs the costs of the search.

VIII. OUR STRENGTHS

We know Illinois school districts. Our Illinois Team understands the increasing complexity of placing administrators in Illinois, especially when candidates come from out-of-state. With recent major changes in certification, pension and school funding, search consultants must be aware of the ever-changing landscape in Illinois education. Our advice on topics affecting your search will be current, reflecting best practices and the most up-to-date changes in Illinois school law.

Our record of success is extraordinary. Our firm has an outstanding record of success in the industry for the retention of executive educators whom we have placed. Additionally, we have a 100% record of completing searches on time and within budget.

We recruit candidates. We accept applications on our website. However, we go beyond accepting applications and recruit candidates whom we know to be a good match for your District. Five recent searches where our recruited candidates won the superintendent positions are Parkway School District (MO), Oak Park-River Forest High School District (IL), Birmingham School District (MI), Quincy Public Schools (IL), St. Cloud Area School District (MN), Rochester (MN), Glenbard High School District (IL) and West Aurora (IL).

We bring quality candidates. The most important aspect of a search is for the Board to have excellent candidates from which to make a selection of the new superintendent. We don’t settle until we have found outstanding candidates for your search.

We customize your search. We will work with you to assure that the search process fits your District and your needs. We are flexible when working with Boards and understand every district is unique.

We measure our success. Our success is measured both formally and informally. We stay connected with board members from past searches to gain their feedback. We track our placements based on longevity of contracts. At the end of each year, our consultants attend our annual conference to assess the past season, improve our protocols and receive updates and training for the new search year.

We engage your community. We will invite your entire community and staff to give us feedback through focus groups, a customized on-line survey, open forums and highly structured interview committees. Our success in this process is characterized by a seamless search that ends on time, on budget and with a great new leader

IX. HOW TO CONTACT US SCHOOL EXEC CONNECT is excited to assist you in your selection of a new superintendent. We would enjoy achieving our mutual goal of assuring quality education and leadership for your District. Please visit our website at www.schoolexecconnect.com to learn more about us. Kathryn Robbins, Partner, 630-470-5070 krobbins1020@att.net Kevin O’Mara, Senior Associate 708-516-0793 k.omara@comcast.net John Sawyer III, Senior Associate 314-707-3158 jsawyeriii@att.net