The next leader of the South Euclid-Lyndhurst School District should be a tactful communicator and an innovative global thinker who is capable of raising the bar on student achievement.

Those traits and more were noted as important qualities in a school leader in 15 focus groups assembled by executive search firm Finding Leaders. The focus groups included Board of Education members, school staff, city officials and community members who answered questions about their opinions on the school district as well as desired leadership qualities in the school district’s next superintendent. Results of those focus groups were delivered to the Board of Education at its Feb. 22 meeting. Click here for a summation of the results that was presented to the public at the February Board Meeting. 

In general, focus group participants found the school district’s teaching staff, diversity, strong community relationships, and academic and extra-curricular offerings as the most significant attributes. Noted areas of greatest need include consistency in discipline, academic performance, finances, parent involvement, administrative communications, and relationships between South Euclid and Lyndhurst.

When it comes to the next leader of the school district, the SE-L community is looking for a visible presence in both school buildings and the community. Other desirable qualities include honesty, courage and a firm decision maker who understands the changing nature of the school community.

Along with those personal qualities, the community is looking for someone with administrative experience in a similarly diverse school district, along with a strong leadership and management background.

Ultimately, the community is looking for a move to academic excellence, building relationships with respect and unity, and rebuilding morale among teachers, students and the community.

Board President Stefanie Rhine said she appreciates the interest the community has taken in assisting the Board in finding the next SE-L superintendent. She said the Board will use the focus group feedback to find a leader who fits the SE-L community.

“On behalf of the Board, I would like to thank all those who took the time to either attend a focus group or reach out to us with information regarding the selection of our next superintendent,” Rhine said. “It is certainly our intent to hire someone who can address those areas that need improvement while continuing to support those areas that make our district and community a great place to live and learn.”

The Board will begin the interview process in March and intends to name a new superintendent by the end of April.

For additional comments or questions please contact Stefanie Rhine at rhine@sel.k12.oh.us.