The Register Citizen (Torrington, CT)
Public opinion sought in focus groups
District prepares for schools chief search
WINSTED >> Two focus group sessions have been scheduled as part of the ongoing search for a new superintendent to head the Winchester Public Schools, according to announcements on both the town and district websites.
The first session, aimed at taking input from the community at large, will be held on Monday, March 20 at 6:15 p.m. in the auditorium of Founders Hall on the campus of Northwestern Connecticut Community College.
A second focus group will follow at 7:15 p.m. in the same location, with the hope of taking in the thoughts of parents and PTO members.
“Winchester’s new leader must have a strong record of accomplishments particularly as an instructional leader, be “hands on” and know how to maximize the advantages of Winchester’s supportive community culture and possess excellent communication skills to reach out to all stakeholders,” wrote district officials as part of an “invitation to lead” posted
on the district website and that of the Connecticut Association of Boards of Education. “The ideal candidate must be a prudent fiscal manager and knowledgeable about efficient and effective use of the limited financial resources of Winchester while continuing to provide all students with a high-quality rigorous education.”
The deadline for applications from those interested in the position, according to that document, is March 24, 2017.
An online survey designed to tabulate input from the community can be taken through the Winchester schools website.
Participants are asked to consider their desired leadership and personal qualities in a new superintendent, and assess the strengths and challenges facing town schools.
Former Superintendent of Schools Anne Watson reached a settlement with the state Department of Education in January, with her resignation from the position to become effective on July 30.
Watson had been on administrative leave since August 2015, after her duties were assumed by then-Receiver Robert Travaglini.
In the “invitation to lead,” district officials noted that Receiver Freeman Burr is expected to remain a presence in the town schools after a new superintendent is hired.
“Currently the CT State Department of Education has assigned a Receiver to oversee the school district,” district officials wrote. “The Receiver will continue to be in Winchester to support the new Superintendent and the Board of Education in order to assist with a smooth transition.”
Burr, who assumed the duties of superintendent as receiver in November, previously told members of the Board of Education in February that he and Durational Project Manager Ellen Stoltz will likely stay on into the next fiscal year, as the state ramps down direct oversight of the town schools.