Two More Opportunities to Weigh In This Week as Board Begins Superintendent Search

There are two more chances to join the conversation with the school board as they begin their national search for a new superintendent.

• Nov. 9, 6:30 – 8 p.m., at Thomas Jefferson High School, 4248 S. 288th Street, Auburn, WA 98001
• Nov. 12, 6:30 – 8 p.m., at Todd Beamer High School, 35999 16th Avenue South, Federal Way, WA 98003

Superintendent Thomas R. Murphy’s announcement that he intends to retire at the end of the 2009–2010 school year has triggered the search for a new superintendent to take the helm of Federal Way Public Schools next fall.

The Board is creating a transparent, inclusive, and efficient process for hiring a new superintendent.  This process has begun with listening sessions this month for parents, community members, staff and students.  These sessions are designed to give our Board members the opportunity to hear from our stakeholders as the Board moves through this very important process.

“I have every confidence that we are not only prepared for this important transition but that our board, educational staff and community will continue to work together to ensure that our schools thrive in the near and distant future,” Supt. Murphy noted in his comments at an Oct. 13 press conference.

“We look forward to hearing what the community wants for their schools as we embark on this exciting journey,” Board President Suzanne Smith commented. “In our search for a new superintendent, we are committed to building on our success with a process that is transparent, inclusive and efficient for parents, teachers, staff, students and the community. Our primary search criteria for a new superintendent are founded on a commitment to academic excellence, innovation and community engagement,” she added.

Following the conclusion of the listening sessions, the board will also appoint an advisory committee to provide feedback throughout the superintendent search. 

Posted: November 6, 2009