New Madrid County R-1 School Board seeks public's input as superintendent search begins

NEW MADRID - Parents and community members can add their input on what qualities they expect from the next New Madrid County R-1 superintendent.

With the announcement by Dr. Cynthia Sharp Amick of her retirement from the superintendent's position at the end of the 2015-16 school year, the R-1 School Board is taking advantage of a service offered by the Missouri School Boards Association to find her replacement, according to Ryan Eddy, president of the board.

"We decided to utilize (the service) because we felt it would help us hire the very best superintendent for our district," Eddy said.

Eddy said there are some misconceptions among residents that MSBA is hiring the next superintendent. He emphasized it will be the Board's decision.

"Basically they are the information-gatherers. They will help us identify those candidates that have the characteristics that we, as a District, think are important for our superintendent. We still see all the applications, we still conduct the interviews and we make the selection," he said.

As for Eddy, he said he is looking for someone with leadership characteristics, including integrity, morals and experience in the operation of a school district. He wants an individual who is a "good fit" for the District, its students, staff and patrons.

Make your opinion count

A link to the anonymous online survey, where New Madrid County R-1 parents and community members can voice their opinion on what qualities they would like to see in the District's superintendent, is located on the District's home page at https://newmadridco.k12.mo.us. The deadline for the survey's completion is Oct. 7.

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