Riverside Schools to begin superintendent search in early 2023

Bryson Durst, The News-Herald, Willoughby, Ohio
·2 min read

Dec. 18—Riverside School Board will begin the search for a new superintendent in early 2023, with James Kalis set to retire on July 31.

The board voted to accept Kalis' retirement at its Dec. 15 meeting. The board also approved a superintendent search agreement with the Ohio School Boards Association, holding a work session with OSBA Director of Board and Management Services Cheryl Ryan to discuss the superintendent search process.

Ryan explained that during the search process, the OSBA will work to arrange interviews and, if the board wants, hold focus groups with community members and district employees. The OSBA will also make sure that candidates meet state requirements and fill out their applications correctly.

Meanwhile, Riverside's board will screen candidates and conduct interviews.

Ryan also asked board members about the district's upcoming plans. Board President Lori Krenisky mentioned that the district will work on a new facilities plan in coming years, while Kalis added that the district will update its strategic plan.

Board members also commented on what they would like to see in the next superintendent.

Krenisky said that the next superintendent should engage with the community and further the district's strategic plan goals, while Jennifer Harden said that the next superintendent should be able to offer suggestions for the district during the interview process.

Thomas Hach said that the superintendent should be trustworthy, while Scott Fishel added that the candidate should have honor, integrity and "a very strong business acumen."

Belinda Grassi said that the next superintendent should be dynamic and able to work in what she described as the district leadership's family-like atmosphere.

Ryan and the board discussed conducting two rounds of candidate interviews in February and March, with Ryan noting that the new superintendent's contract will start Aug. 1.

Kalis noted at the district's Nov. 17 board meeting that he has worked in the district for 26 years, serving as superintendent for 16.

"It's just been a great place," he said.