Kennett Schools accepting applications for superintendent

The Kennett Board of Education decided to start accepting letters of interest from superintendent applicants, during a closed session meeting on Oct. 28, the Daily Dunklin Democrat reported. Superintendent Jerry Noble will resign at the end of the 2009-2010 school year.

Board President Matthew R. Shetley said the board chose to look within the district first because 'it feels there are staff members who are "very qualified" for the position that currently work in the district.'

"There is no one within the district that has the experience as a superintendent," Shetley said. "However, there are those who have been in the administration for several years."

Shetley said the primary qualification the district is looking for is leadership skills.

According to Board Secretary Donna Haman, as of Thursday one letter of interest has been submitted by an inside applicant for the position. Noble said the letter was submitted by current Kennett Middle School principal Ward H. Billings.

The board will continue to accept letters of interest from within the district until 10 a.m., Friday, Nov. 13. Interviews will be scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 17, at the Kennett Board of Education meeting.

Following the interview process on Tuesday, Nov. 17, the board will discuss what to do next, whether it be filling the position from the applicants, or seeking applications from outside the district, Shetley said.

Noble officially announced his pending resignation during the executive session portion of the Tuesday, Oct. 20, board meeting.

The current superintendent said he has enjoyed his five years with the Kennett School District, adding that 'it has been both challenging and rewarding.'