Community describes next Sandusky Schools leader

SANDUSKY — Officials representing Sandusky Schools hosted a series of focus groups to gather input on what the district wants to see in its next superintendent. On Thursday, Sandusky Schools and Kristi Robbins from the Ohio School Board Association oversaw four focus group sessions for different stakeholder groups. At one session Thurdsay afternoon, about two dozen people attended. In each session, attendees answered three questions to help narrow down what characteristics they want to see in the next district's next leader. Each group — including school officials, city officials, faith and civic leaders and community members — shared their thoughts on the following prompts: • Major issues within the district The district's state rankings was one issue brought up during the focus group. Other points of discussion included improving students' behavior and offering support for the district's teachers. • Characteristics, quality and knowledge the superintendent should have Many community members want the district's next superintendent to be from Sandusky. One person said the person would ideally be a graduate of the district who understands the city, shops where they shop and pays the same taxes. The community also wants the next district leader to see the job as a dream rather than a stepping stone for a career. • Performance expectations by the end of the first year By the end of the next leader's first year at Sandusky Schools, those who spoke said the community expects the superintendent to have developed relationships, earned the trust of the community, have a three-year plan to improve the district and be honest with stakeholders about where improvements can be made. In addition to these in-person focus group sessions, the district also has a survey available on its website. The responses will be kept anonymous while helping the board through the superintendent search.