Salary for Incoming Schools Superintendent: $190K

Search criteria in finding a superintendent for West Bloomfield Schools to replace the retiring JoAnn Andrees was established on Friday at a special board meeting, in addition to the salary figure of $190,000.

Andrees' salary in the 2011-12 fiscal year was $153,425, which represents a 10 percent pay cut from the previous year.

Representatives of district's executive search firm Ray and Associates spoke with the Board of Education at to hone a list of "most desirable characteristics" of potential applicants in order to publish promotional materials and an application form.

The characteristics, gleaned from a series of surveys taken at focus groups March 7-8 in West Bloomfield, were shared with the public and included some revealing differences of opinion between the board and community "stakeholders."

After the board approved the criteria Friday, Ray and Associates will seek a candidate who meets roundly-supported criteria, among others:

• has demonstrated strong leadership skills in previous positions.
• is able to delegate authority appropriately while maintaining accountability.
• has experience in the management of district resources and knowledge of sound fiscal procedures.

The incoming superintendent will likely have an Ed.D or a Ph.D, after the board made it clear through the survey process that a candidate with a doctorate is preferred. Findings from the focus groups showed that various community "stakeholders" including school "parent leaders," did not rank higher than many other positive characteristics in the survey.

Representative Marlene Davis said that the online advertisement would remain silent on the issue of a doctorate, but if interested candidates contact the company, they will be told that candidates with doctorates or those working towards doctorates will be preferred.

The board agreed to strike down criterion that the superintendent "is able to build consensus and commitment among individuals and groups with emphasis on parental involvement."

Secretary Raman Singh pointed out, "sometimes the tough decisions aren't consensus-based."

Trustee David Einstandig added, "having that goal in priority could result in a candidate who could be detrimental to a leadership decision."

Application materials are due to Ray and Associates by April 23, and two rounds of interviews are scheduled in May.