ORANGE TOWNSHIP — The search for a leader to define the next era of Mapleton Local Schools has begun with the board of education seeking applications for a new superintendent.
The new superintendent will begin on or before Aug. 1, when Superintendent Scott Smith steps down.
“After thoughtful reflection for over a year now, I’ve decided it’s the right time to retire from the Mapleton Local School District. This was a personal decision made with my family,” Smith wrote in an email.
Smith has been superintendent since 2018. Prior to that, the Mountie graduate served in several other roles at Mapleton, including as teacher, coach and principal.
Smith said he is most proud of the district’s work to restore “a shared sense of purpose.”
“Academic growth and improvements reflected on the district report card were never the goal in themselves; however, they were the natural outcome of explicit instruction, collaboration and attention to detail in classrooms every day. The transformation we see today is the result of collective effort across every level of the organization from our administrative team, teachers, staff and the board of education.”
Smith
“Academic growth and improvements reflected on the district report card were never the goal in themselves; however, they were the natural outcome of explicit instruction, collaboration and attention to detail in classrooms every day. The transformation we see today is the result of collective effort across every level of the organization from our administrative team, teachers, staff and the board of education,” Smith said.
The next district’s leader must know how to navigate declining student enrollment, funding uncertainties and state policy changes, Smith said.
His advice to the next candidate? Listen, build relationships, maintain open communication, create meaningful opportunities for students, believe in the administrative team and empower teachers.
Smith will continue to oversee the district and work with the board of education, which will be in charge of hiring the next superintendent, to ensure a smooth transition until August.
What qualities are being sought?
“The candidate must be committed to the highest personal and professional standards and exhibit leadership in the district and community. The individual must maintain integrity and high standards of ethics in all matters,” the job posting reads.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate the following qualities, according to the job posting:
- Understand and appreciate the unique needs and strengths of rural schools
- Lead continuous improvement efforts
- Understand effective teaching and learning practices
- Make data-informed decisions
- Demonstrate financial leadership in levy planning, budgeting, funding and fiscal forecasting
- Effectively communicate and collaborate with the board of education, staff, administration, families and other community members
Salary will be determined based on experience and qualifications, according to the posting.
Application materials are tentatively due by March 6, with interviews to follow later in March and a decision by April 13.
Applicants must send materials via email to school board president Vince Hartzler at vhartzler@imountie.org or via mail directed to Hartzler at Mapleton Local School District, 635 County Road 801.