Search opens for new MCS Superintendent

Former and current members of Madison Board of Education said good-bye to Superintendent Dr. Dee Fowler on Nov. 17. Wishing him well in Montgomery were Dr. Sheila Nash Stephenson, front from left, Phil Schmidt, Fowler and Sue Helms and Tim Holtcamp, back from left, Dr. Terri Johnson, Connie Spears and David Hergenroeder. CONTRIBUTED

MADISON – Members of Madison Board of Education have started the task to fill the position of superintendent of education for Madison City Schools (MCS).

Dr. Dee Fowler, current MCS Superintendent, resigned to accept the job of Deputy State Superintendent of Education and Chief of Staff for Alabama State Superintendent of Education Michael Sentance in Montgomery.

“The next superintendent will find a very talented pool of teachers and staff, a community very supportive of education, a forward-thinking board of education and the best students anywhere to be found,” Public Relations Manager John S. Peck said.

The board opened the search on Nov. 17. The law offices of Lanier Ford with school board attorney Woody Sanderson are collecting applications. By this procedure, the board can offer confidentiality to interested candidates.

A candidate for MCS Superintendent must exhibit “general fitness and character appropriate to the position;” according to the notice of vacancy. For education, the applicant must have a degree from a recognized four-year college or university with certification (or eligibility for certification) in administration and recognized ability as a school administrator.

In addition, superintendent candidates must have five years minimum in successful experience and general knowledge of public school administration. The board expects the new superintendent to report to work around Feb. 15, 2017.

“The successful candidate will be required to reside in Madison,” the notice states. “The superintendent’s school-age children are expected, but not required, to attend Madison City Schools unless there are extenuating circumstances.”

“The minimum salary for the position is $150,000 plus benefits but is negotiable based on the successful candidate’s experience and proven track record of success,” the notice states.

Applications are available at madisoncity.k12.al.us. An applicant also must send a cover letter, resume and three professional references minimum. Email Superintendent@LanierFord.com, or send by postal mail to Madison City Superintendent Search, c/o Lanier Ford, 2101 West Clinton Ave., Suite 102, Huntsville, Alabama 35805.

Deadline for applications is Dec. 19.

By Jan. 11, 2017, the field of applicants will be narrowed to finalists. At its Jan. 12 meeting, Madison Board of Education will announce finalists. The board will interview finalists on Jan. 17-20 and, if necessary, again on Jan. 23-26.

On Feb. 2, the board plans to appoint the new superintendent. For more information, visit https://goo.gl/vCKI31.