Q: What are your thoughts on the recently concluded search for a new superintendent?
A: I was very pleased with the process from start to finish. I was pleased with the number of applicants we received as well as the quality of the applicants. All four of our finalists were stellar and any one of them could have done the job. The conundrum and wisdom piece for us board members was finding the one person who could do the best job for St. Johns County.
Q: Can you take us through the process?
A: Tuesday, May 13 was a grueling day because it was the day of public interviews for the four finalists. Board members asked the same questions of each candidate to be fair. After this hours-long process wrapped up, we hosted an evening meet and greet for the finalists and any member of the public who wanted to attend. I’d say we had around 150 people in attendance, including school and district staff, teachers, principals and parents.
Q: What happened at the Meet and Greet?
A: Each finalist was allowed five minutes to introduce themselves without the other finalists in the room. Then, they each went to one of the four corners of the room to answer questions from attendees. They each drew a crowd. We board members watched the interactions and had the opportunity to see how comfortable each was when talking to the attendees. I was also able to chat with some people in the room and gleaned input. One fun thing was that Ketterlinus Elementary sent their student news crew to interview the finalists. Also, a guitar trio from St. Augustine High School entertained us.
Q: What was the final part of the interview process?
A: On the next day, Wednesday, each board member interviewed each applicant individually for an hour. Board members were free to handle their interviews as they saw fit. I started each of mine asking for the finalist to tell me about themselves personally. I was trying for a more relaxed and conversational tone. Finally, we had one last opportunity to read the public comments from after the public interviews before the May 20 meeting where we selected the new superintendent.
Q: What was the procedure of the selection meeting on May 20?
A: We did have a specific process to follow. First, the entire selection process was reviewed. Then the board entered into rounds of discussion and voting. In the first round, each board member was given five minutes to give their thoughts on the candidates. Then, beginning with the second round, more discussion ensued before a motion was made to select Dr. Brennan Asplen as the new superintendent. I’m delighted to announce that he received the unanimous vote of the board.
Q: How can our readers contact you?
A: They can email me at beverly.slough@stjohns.k12.fl.us or call me at (904) 547-7510.
