In the Amherst Regional School District, a search for a new superintendent has begun in the wake of significant controversy involving the mistreatment of LGBTQIA+ students, leading to several resignations and job changes.
Jennifer Shiao, a member of the school committee, expressed her hopes for a new leader with experience in uniting and working with people from diverse backgrounds, someone who can facilitate healing and positive guidance for the district.
Former Superintendent Michael Morris resigned in August, and Douglas Slaughter, the district’s finance producer, is currently serving as acting superintendent. Along with Morris, six other school committee members and former Assistant Superintendent Doreen Cunningham have also departed from the district.
Earlier this year, the district faced serious allegations with the filing of a formal Title IX complaint regarding sex discrimination and a detailed report in The Graphic, a student publication, about the abuse of trans students at the middle school by three guidance counselors.
An inspection report released in November revealed that Amherst-Pelham Regional Public Schools failed to adequately address allegations of abuse and misconduct by middle school staff against LGBTQ+ students.
The Union 26 Committee and the Amherst Regional School Committee are now initiating the search for a new superintendent. The expectation is for the new leader to start on July 1, with the job posting likely to be released in January. Shiao is part of a four-member committee that has made recommendations for the superintendent search process.
The search will potentially involve a 20-person committee comprising community members recommended by the combined committees. The final composition of the search committee will be determined by the joint committee.
Shiao emphasized the desire for diversity in the search committee, hoping to include individuals not previously active in school issues, and aiming for a superintendent who reflects the community’s needs.
The search committee may include parents or guardians of students or staff at various schools in the district, as well as residents of Leverett, Pelham, or Shutesbury. Interested individuals can apply online.
Shiao expressed disappointment but optimism despite the low number of applications so far to join the committee. The 20-person committee will screen candidates, conduct interviews, and recommend finalists, with the joint committee making the final superintendent selection.
The bulk of the selection process is expected to be completed in February and March. Committee applicants will be notified by January 24 if they are selected, with the application for the search committee closing on January 15.
Professional recruitment firm McPherson & Jacobson will assist in finding a diverse pool of candidates. Shiao expressed confidence in finding a suitable candidate who would approach the role with an open mind and recognize the challenges and opportunities of leading in an American society.
