Greenfield — The Whitnall School District continues its search to replace Superintendent Karen Petric, enlisting help from the wider school community as well as a state group.
Whitnall began discussions on replacing Petric after she announced in August she would retire at the end of June 2010.
The School Board set up a series focus group meetings that began last week and conclude at 6:30 p.m. today in the community/board room at Whitnall High School, 5000 S. 116th St.
The five meetings were held to gather the community's input on characteristics and qualities they would like to see in the next school district leader, according to a district news release.
Board members from the outset have said they wanted to solicit the public's input, and the focus groups were the first element.
The School Board has turned its focus to the search process parameters, board President Bill Osterndorf said. The board met last week to discuss how to advertise the position, develop questions and determine tasks related to the search.
"It seems to be going reasonably well," Osterndorf said. "We're trying to move this forward in a positive and constructive manner."
Earlier this month, the board decided to enlist the Wisconsin Association of School Boards to assist in the search.
The WASB regularly helps school districts in the state in superintendent searches. The association helps with aspects such as planning, advertising, interviews and contracts, according to its Web site.
Board member T.J. Anderson said the local board is taking on most of the role in the search, but the WASB would be "utilized as a resource" and offer its guidance when necessary.
Whitnall School Board members had initially discussed hiring a professional search firm or consultant in the process but noted the WASB's much lower cost.
The WASB works on an hourly basis and Anderson said the estimated cost is less than $5,000.
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