Wendy presented an application update, reporting that no applications had been received yet, though the deadline was set for November 25th, and the committee was not concerned about the lack of submissions given the current busy period for school leaders.   

Wendy outlined the application requirements and confirmed the interview timeline: first-round interviews on December 4 and second-round panel interviews on December 15 or 16 should there be a candidate who applies and proceeds to that stage. 

Anne and Wendy will do the initial application review, followed by first-round interviews with the succession committee and second-round interviews with panels, including board members, staff, and student government representatives.

The December 4 board meeting will be replaced by a Succession Committee meeting with candidate interviews. Due to scheduling constraints, the committee agreed the first round would be conducted remotely, with subsequent stages held in person. Wendy reviewed the full process, including panel interviews, a January 6 town hall, and reference checks, with the committee reconvening after the holiday break to evaluate candidates and determine next steps. Sarah suggested the reference date be changed to allow for additional time to receive responses. 

Shawna Wells joined the meeting at 4:29 PM.

Wendy provided an overview of the materials interviewers will receive. She confirmed that internal and external candidates will follow the same process, if needed, and that individual interviewer ratings will be synthesized for committee decision-making.

The group reviewed the candidate scoring system. Amy asked how to introduce more nuance into scoring beyond a simple yes/no structure. Shawna noted that more detail is not always better but agreed that a middle-ground option could be useful. After discussion, the committee agreed to maintain the yes/no framework while adding “strong yes” and “strong no” options to capture meaningful distinctions without overcomplicating the process.  For the second-round panel interviews, participants will receive summary notes, and their input will contribute to evaluating must-have criteria.

The committee also discussed planning for the January 6 town hall during the staff PD Day, where candidates will present their vision and answer questions. Wendy emphasized a positive, non-debate format, with board members facilitating. Sarah raised how to manage difficult or off-topic questions; Wendy will prepare guidance and planned responses to ensure consistent facilitation. 

The group reconfirmed the agreed-upon next steps and overall process, and Bill posted the December 4th succession committee meeting.