School Board Seeks More Community Input on Next Superintendent

The Fairfax County School Board members are offering the community another opportunity to share their thoughts and feedback on the recent draft characteristics for the next FCPS superintendent.

Consultants from Hazard, Young, Attea, & Associates (HYA) will have additional forums this month at different locations in Fairfax County:

• 4 p.m., Jan. 14, Centreville High School (library)
• 7 p.m., Jan. 14,, Hayfield Secondary School (middle school cafeteria)
• 10 a.m., Jan. 15, Gatehouse Administration Center (Room 1600)
• 7 p.m., Jan. 15, South Lakes High School (cafeteria)

The online survey will also remain available through Jan. 23.

Previously, HYA conducted forums to gather feedback from parents and other community members about characteristics they're looking for in their next educational leader. At the School Board meeting Thursday, Dec. 20, HYA presented a draft leadership profile report.

After an initial observation of the report, some school board members discussed their concerns and asked HYA questions about the community's feedback. Kathy Smith (Sully) said she had some concerns about the emphasis on community engagement instead of educational skill set.

"The one thing I saw that was missing, they really didn’t talk about being a good business manager, the ability to be a macro manager," said Tamara Derenak Kaufax (Lee). "Someone who can work with a large staff and also build a strong team."

The Board will review the feedback gathered from meetings this month and take them into consideration while finalizing the characteristics they're looking for in the next superintendent during the Jan. 30 work session.