[speedgibson] Speed Gibson: Faster than a Speeding Bullet

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Posted by Speed Gibson:
Faster than a Speeding Bullet
http://speedgibson.powerblogs.com/posts/1234591388.shtml


   District 281 is searching for a new Superintendent to take over this
   July. They have just published a "[1]Letter to candidates for
   Superintendent" on their web site. Now I realize that this letter,
   which links to a list of "desired" attributes on another page, is
   primarily for us residents, parents, and taxpayers to read. Actual
   applicants will more likely learn of the opening and more about the
   District through the search firm hired and professional publications.
   Still, I'm rather surprised by the almost flippant style used for such
   an important position. This person will be responsible for the
   education of over ten thousand students, supervise nearly two thousand
   employees, and manage a $ 180 million annual budget.
   Plus, only a superman could hope to meet all the criteria listed. The
   32 NFL teams can list all the highly desired skills they seek in a
   quarterback, but the truth is that there are only about 6 such active
   players in any given year.
   Much of it is so obvious as to be redundant:
     * Works creatively
     * Speaks and writes effectively
     * Is an outstanding educational leader
     * Has a strong background in curriculum
     * Can meet the multiple needs of the District
     * Focuses on improving student achievement
     * Is a strong leader
     * Has excellent interpersonal skills
     * Has high integrity and ethics
     * Can engage the staff
     * Is an effective listener
     * Can make positive connections with the community

   I could list several more, but truth be told, much of this doesn't
   ultimately matter. These are all means to an end: results. And not the
   only means. Many Super Bowls have been won by teams with second tier
   quarterbacks.
   There are two broad questions I'd pose to Superintendent candidates.
   First, what do you think of the 2008 Strategic Plan? What would you
   change? How would you rank these goals in priority? What do you think
   of our progress to date? When would you be done with the remaining
   tasks?
   Second, how would you make the Robbinsdale Area Schools again be
   regarded as one of the ten best public school districts in Minnesota?

References

   1. http://www.rdale.org/modules/cms/pages.phtml?pageid=91957