Wednesday, December 11, 2024
Lipan — During a meeting Monday, July 22, the Lipan ISD school board named Jimmy Dobbs from Poolville interim superintendent, confirmed Trina Wartes, Lipan ISD business manager. Dobbs, a retired superintendent from Poolville, has extensive experience in interim roles.
The board also accepted Ralph Carter’s resignation. After six years with Lipan ISD, Carter will move to Hereford ISD.
George Kazanas, division director of the Texas Association of School Boards’ executive search and field services, and Rick Howard, TASB field representative, outlined the superintendent search process. Kazanas, a retired educator with 32 years’ experience, expressed gratitude for leading the search and shared his educational background.
Kazanas emphasized the importance of backward planning from the transition date around Christmas. He detailed the recruitment timeline, including community involvement through online surveys and staff interviews during in-service days. “We send lots of reminders along the way,” Kazanas noted, mentioning the typical receipt of 20-25 applications.
The deadline for candidate applications is set for Oct. 6, including resumes, cover letters, transcripts, recommendation letters and a video component. “Everything’s fair game in that second round,” Kazanas said, highlighting the importance of compatibility checks and site visits.
Howard, an education consultant, emphasized the value of staff and community involvement. “All people are valued or valuable in this process,” he said, stressing the benefits of online surveys for gathering feedback. Howard also highlighted the need for a firm timeline due to candidates’ schedules. “We electronically do it as well, meetings through things like LinkedIn,” he added.
As Lipan ISD searches for a new superintendent, community involvement is crucial. Kazanas’ and Howard’s plan ensures thorough candidate evaluations and values input from everyone. Community engagement and feedback will be vital in shaping the district’s next chapter.
“The school board is excited about the process,” said Wartes, highlighting the positive outlook for Lipan ISD’s future.
