(Harlan) The Harlan School board narrowed the seven Superintendent candidates down to three following virtual interviews held on Thursday, January 21.
Harlan Schools Superintendent Lynn Johnson says the three finalists will be interviewed on campus on February 11. Johnson says there will be a wide array of people involved in the interview process on that day.
Johnson says the stakeholders will then provide feedback to the board.
The three finalists are listed below.
Dr. Jennifer Barnett: Dr. Barnett is currently serving as the Executive Director of Targeted Services and Supports for Green Hills Area Education Association; she has served in this capacity for the past two years. Previously, Dr. Barnett served as a Regional Administrator for Green Hills AEA, and a 23-year tenure within the Council Bluffs Community School District as Executive Director of Student and Family Services, Principal, Assistant Principal, Guidance Counselor, and Special Education Teacher. Her previous experience also included four years serving as the Principal of Kanesville High School where she developed the Passages Alternative Learning Center. Dr. Barnett has done substantive work locally and at the state level around mental health and social/emotional learning. She is known for her collaborative approach to leadership and her approachability.
Andy Irwin: Mr. Irwin is currently the Superintendent and Elementary Principal at Harris-Lake Park CSD; he has served in that capacity for the past four years. Previously he served as the Assistant Principal and Activities Director at Shenandoah CSD, 7-12 Principal and Activities Director at East Mills CSD, Assistant Principal and Activities Director at Fairbury, Nebraska, Social Studies Teacher at Creighton CSD, and Industrial Technology Teacher at East Mills CSD. Mr. Irwin has done substantial work with school facilities and the integration of technology in his current district. One notable accomplishment is helping to develop the Lakes Area Academy which offers vocational programs to area students. He also revamped the district teacher evaluation process. Mr. Irwin is known as being a real collaborator, communicator, and relationship-builder.
Robert Scott: Mr. Scott is currently the Associate Superintendent at Davenport Community School District; he has served in that capacity for the past eight years. Previously Mr. Scott served as Principal at Davenport Central High School, Associate Principal at Davenport Central High School, Physical Education Teacher at Wood Intermediate School in Davenport, 13 years as Physical Education/Math/Health Teacher at two schools in Illinois, and two years in the US Army. As an administrator, Mr. Scott has overseen principals, implementation of Professional Learning Communities, and multiple building and remodeling projects. He also leads district negotiations for the district and their safety plan. He has also been very involved in the community of Davenport participating in multiple civic organizations and volunteer opportunities.
Grundmeyer Leader Services has been assisting the Board with the search. Initially, a Community Stakeholder Survey was utilized; based on this data, the Board approved the following eight Desired Characteristics for the next Superintendent.
- Is approachable, accessible, and welcoming
- Demonstrates ethics and integrity
- Follows through on tasks and responsibilities
- Recruits hire and develop a strong administrative team
- Possess strong communication skills
- Strong instructional leader
- Ability to lead school improvement efforts
- Effectively manages district resources including facility updates
