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Tenzin Jangchup

The finalists in the principal search introduced themselves to a room of community members, teachers and students at a public forum April 30 where audience members could offer their opinion on the process.

According to Richard Kreyer, district director of human resources, before the recent announcement of the two finalists, students, teachers and community members were asked what they saw as ideal qualities in a principal.

The various responses were narrowed down to a list of nine qualities the community wishes to see in the next principal.

This list was handed out at the meeting to give the attendees of the meeting an idea of what to look for in the finalists.

At the meeting, finalists Scott Meyers, current interim principal at Park, and Brenda Damiani, current Robbinsdale Armstrong assistant principal, had the chance to speak to the attendees, introducing themselves, their goals and their ideas for the coming year.

This was followed by a question-and-answer session where the community could ask the finalists about their plans for next year or their thoughts on certain topics.

Martin Dusaire, a community member, said the meeting was his first time participating in the principal selection process and he thought it went well.

“I think it was great the community was included to participate in the process,” Dusaire said. “I hope the comments I submit will be taken into account and that there is a larger, more representative group submitting comments too.”

Dusaire said both finalists had ideas they could bring to the school next year, which brought him hope for the school’s future.

According to Kreyer, the community meeting was held directly after a second round of interviews to give the superintendent additional opinions on the final choices.

“We’re going to ask the community members for their input on the candidates,” Kreyer said. “We will take that feedback so the superintendent will have (the community’s opinions) too.”

Members of the community who could not attend the meeting still have the opportunity have their voices heard. The district website has an online form where community members may give their input on the selection process.

The form can be found at www.slpschools.org and must be submitted before May 5.

Kreyer said after collecting all the input, the superintendent will weigh his thoughts and the comments received from the community.

“Ultimately, (the superintendent) is trying to put together the best team he can for the district,” Kreyer said. “After weighing all that information, he will choose one of the finalists and make that recommendation to the school board.”

According to Kreyer, the school board will announce its final decision regarding the principal selection May 11 at the next school board meeting.