Pittsfield School Committee Vetting Finalists for Deputy Post
 |
An additional two candidates will be interviewed on June 13 for the position of interim superintendent, an opening created by the unsuccessful search for a permanent superintendent of schools conducted over the past few months.
Following interviews Wednesday with three candidates to replace outgoing Deputy Superintendent of Schools Barbara Malkas, the committee voted unanimously to advance two, N. Tracy Crowe and Katherine Scheigler. The committee voted 5 to 2 not to advance a third candidate, Lynne Christensen, with only Daniel Elias and Terry Kinnas supporting her continued candidacy.
Malkas was named the superintendent of the Webster School District in April. She begins her new post on July.
Crowe currently works as an assistant principal at a high school in Marblehead.
"I believe she does have the ability to grow into the position," said Katherine Yon, "She seemed very able and willing to take on challenges."
Scheigler is employed as director of educational services of the Hamilton-Wenham Regional School District.
"Her resume and credentials are fantastic," said Chairman Alfred E. "Alf" Barbalunga.
Members of the committee will undertake reference checks, site visits, and other data-gathering prior to taking a final vote to offer the position to one at its next meeting in one week.
"I think reference checks are critical," said Superintendent Howard J. "Jake" Eberwein, urging initiative on the part of committee members to expedite the necessary due diligence in time for the committee's meeting next week. Eberwein's last day June 30.
The committee voted to invite two former local school administrators to interview for the position of interim superintendent at its June 13 meeting. Basan Nembirkow recently served as interim superintendent
for Lenox schools, and Gordon Noseworthy is a former assistant principal of Taconic High School.
Both candidates were identified with assistance from the Massachusetts Association of School Superintendents.
"I've looked through both packets, I've reached out to a number of people who've worked with both individuals, I've heard all good things," Barbalunga told the committee.
Also at its May 30 meeting, the committee will go over a presentation of its budget for the next year, which it will present to the City Council on June 14.
Tags: superintendent, vacancy,
